A GROUP which helps prevent social isolation in the Yorkshire Dales is urging others to follow their example to help residents make friends.

Wheels and Marbles, so called because one member quipped that as long as you have some wheels and your marbles you will be alright, has been run for around two years by founder Karin Sedgwick.

Mrs Sedgwick, from Spennithorne, near Leyburn, started inviting a few of her elderly neighbours to her home for coffee and cake, but now the group has swelled to more than 25 who meet in various tearooms.

Mrs Sedgwick said: “The group is great at helping prevent social isolation in Wensleydale. It would be great if people in other areas could run similar groups because it is so worthwhile.”

Anyone interested in creating a similar group can call 01969-622038.