A voluntary group which offers elderly residents in a Radlett care home companionship and support, is on the hunt for new recruits.

Abbeyfield Care Home, in The Drive, Radlett, provides sheltered housing for its eight senior occupants.

Jenny Hawkins runs a free voluntary service at the home in a bid to offer further social interaction for residents.

Mrs Hawkins, who has been a member of the voluntary committee for the past 15 years, said: "Abbeyfield does employ some staff here, but not enough to interact with residents all the time, there is no nursing care as such.

"I initially joined the group as I wanted to give something back to the community. I find it very rewarding.

"Now that I’m retired, I spend a few days each week or so talking with residents over a cup of tea - spending some quality time with them.

"Just because these residents are in a home doesn’t mean they don’t feel the need for social interaction."

At the moment the group has five volunteers who offer their time, but Mrs Hawkins said she is hoping to boost this figure to ten.

The retired PE teacher said: "It’s really enjoyable spending time with the residents, so we’re hoping to find people who can offer a spare day, here and there.

"Taking the residents out is proving to be more of a challenge, so ideally we’re looking for people who will be able to keep them active mentally  - whether that’s through conversation, a game of cards, or even a game of chess.

"Radlett has always been a caring community,  and I hope this will continue with an influx of people wanting to join our voluntary committee."

To find out more about becoming a volunteer, call Jenny Hawkins on 01923 854683.