HELP is needed to give lonely and isolated pensioners living in south Buckinghamshire "a reason to live."

National charity Contact the Elderly is looking for volunteers to organise social gatherings for pensioners who live alone.

Volunteers can sign up to drive the elderly to meet with others, act as hosts, or co-ordinate the charity's work.

Pensioner Alice, from High Wycombe, has suffered the loneliness of living alone and would welcome an improvement in her quality of life.

She said: "I would love to be taken out occasionally. It would really give me something to look forward to, a reason for living even. I do hope that a group can be established. It could make such a difference to my life."

"Sunday is always the loneliest day of the week. I miss my husband so much and my family live up North.

Terry Gibson, from Contact the Elderly, said: "We have more than 260 groups nationally, having been established for 40 years, but sadly none in Buckinghamshire.

"We aim to launch 12 groups during the next couple of years, starting in Amersham."

Mr Gibson revealed that running a successful group did not require that many people.

He added: "We are seeking just four or five volunteer drivers one Sunday afternoon a month and hosts for a tea party for around six to eight elderly once or twice a year.

"It's a small commitment which can make such a difference to lonely people. Our volunteers find it's very rewarding and fun as well."

Contact the Elderly is working in partnership with Bucks County Council, which has committed £60,000 to the project, to provide the service free of charge.

Mike Colston, cabinet member for Adult Social Care, said: "Feeling lonely and isolated can lead to depression and other health problems. Having someone to share memories with and talk about our worries is important for our feeling of well-being and security."

To find out more about the group, contact Terry Gibson on 01276 502611 or 07708 969934 or email terry.gibson@contact-the-elderly.org.uk