Volunteers are needed at Egremont's De Lucy Centre to ensure older people do not become lonely.

Age UK, which runs the centre, held an open day to advertise its work to potential recruits. Mayor of Copeland Mike Starkie attended the event to find out more about the charity's efforts. 

Copeland Council hopes to work closely with the volunteers on its new social inclusion policy, which aims to reduce the isolation many older people experience.

Age UK's health and well-being manager Peta Leigh said: "Our aim is to increase the use of the centre and although we already have some fantastic volunteers we would like to recruit some more."

Coun Starkie said: "Age UK are involved in aspects of the social inclusion part of the corporate strategy which seeks to improve health and well-being by reducing social isolation. 

"After spending the morning talking to staff, volunteers and visitors to the centre I can see the important role a hub like this has for the community and the opportunities it provides to help older people benefit from more social activities, which in the long run can support independence and wellbeing."

The De Lucy Centre provides a regularly meeting place for Whitehaven, Egremont and District Credit Union, Citizens Advice and Home Group alongside a range of community activities.

Mrs Leigh said: "We have IT sessions where volunteers help people learn to use computers, craft classes, games sessions, run telephone befriending and the Egremont Amblers walking group meet here. Outside we have a community garden and now we have an allotment on Briscoe Mount. 

"Our IT suite is also used by the Phoenix Centre to support unemployed people and Adult Education to run computer courses.

"There are two rooms that can be hired out for meetings and a café area with an information resource section."