While tales of festive generosity flooded the mainstream media over Christmas, one community group is keen to showcase the efforts it makes all year round.

Wheathampstead Community Group, founded nearly 40 years ago, help bring together lonely members of the community through clubs, monthly get-togethers and volunteer drivers.

The group, which generally help the aged of the area, organises a monthly meal at The Bull in Wheathampstead, where 20 people aged 75 plus are invited to a complimentary meal provided by the restaurant.

A computer club every Tuesday at the library helps the elderly get to grips with IT skills that help them connect with relatives and shop online.

The Thursday lunch club brings together the lonelier of the community and offers the elderly a chance to get out and make friends.

A group of volunteer drivers help mobilise those who would otherwise stay at home, by driving them to the shops, appointments and the get-togethers the group organises.

Lilian Foreman, of High Meads, Wheathampstead, is one of the volunteers who make more than 1000 journeys a year.

She said: “I think the meal that The Bull put on is so important.

“The people we pick up get to know each other and I get to meet three new people every time I take them. I love it. The service is always amazing too.”

The computer club gives the elderly access to 20 laptops and teaches them key skills.

Lilian added: “I know some 80/90 year olds who are now in contact with relatives all over the world via email.

“They’re making friends at the club too, even organising a Christmas party this year.”

They currently have around 50 drivers but The Wheathampstead Community Group is always looking for more volunteers.

Anyone who is interested is asked to contact Marion Oxley on 01582 834238.