Older people in Crossflatts could find a new friend thanks to a volunteer project.

The befriending scheme is also seeking volunteers from other villages, including Harden, Cullingworth and Denholme.

Shipley Area Links Befriending Scheme is being organised jointly by several groups in the Aire Valley.

Each volunteer will make friends with an older person, visiting them in their home and possibly going on outings.

Initially the clients will come from the areas immediately around Shipley and Bingley, including Crossflatts.

But if enough volunteers can be found older people from outlying areas like Denholme and Cullingworth could benefit.

A spokeswoman for the project said befriending involved regular visits to an old person at home.

She said: “The partners are matched so they both enjoy regular friendship and even go on outings together.

“As people get older, they often feel a lack of company, especially if they live alone. Friends and family may not be close by.”

Training and support will be offered to the befrienders. Anyone interested in taking part should contact Joy Mills at Shipley and Bingley Voluntary Service on 01274 781222 or joy@sbvs.org.uk.