Elderly people in Watford are at risk because of a shortage of carers in the town.

That's the message from Peter Neighbour, owner of Home Instead Senior Care Watford, who has a growing waiting list of people looking for care packages.

Mr Neighbour said: "It is frustrating for us and the families that we have a waiting list.

"We know that if elderly people are isolated at home, especially at this time of year, they are more susceptible to illness and falls.

"They can often fail to eat properly and may not drink enough, making them increasingly frail."

Home Instead Senior Care Watford, based at Watford Business Centre, in Greenhill Crescent, has set its sights on creating 30 new care giver jobs in the town in the next 12 months.

But Mr Neighbour said finding people who want to do the job is proving increasingly difficult.

He said: "Our clients and care givers love the care packages we provide because it is on a continuing basis, making it really rewarding. We are looking for people who are kind, compassionate and who enjoy other people's company. They don't have to have any previous experience but may have looked after relatives of their own and know what difference it makes."

For more information visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/watford and/or call Sharon on 01923 250513.