A community event in North Creake later this month is aiming to tackle social isolation and loneliness among older residents living in the area.

The Spark Event is being organised by Community Action Norfolk, working together with West Norfolk based Living Independently in Later Years (LILY) and is taking place at North Creake Village Hall, near Fakenham on Wednesday October 24.

There will be a range of arts, crafts and advice stalls on the day. Groups attending include Wells Community Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Stanhoe and Barwick W.I., First Focus, West Norfolk Libraries, The Stroke Association, West Norfolk Singers and Phoenix Ladies Group.

Freedom Duma, from Community Action Norfolk, said: 'The day is a kind of freshers fair. It will be a showcase for local activity groups that help bring fulfilment and tackle the serious problem of social isolation.

'There'll be a full timetable of activities to choose from throughout the day, with fitness activities for those with limited mobility, dementia-friendly quizzes, health checks – cholesterol and blood pressure – and live music from Hunstanton Community Choir and Justin Austin.'

Whilst loneliness can strike at any age, older people are at greater risk. According to Age U.K., more than a million older people can go for over a month without speaking to a friend, neighbour or family member.

Community Action Norfolk is a leading organisation for engagement with the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector in Norfolk, working with over 500 groups a year and with links to over 5000 organisations, volunteers and community champions, to build a stronger and fairer Norfolk.

All older residents of North Creake, South Creake, Stanhoe, and Silestone are invited to come to the Spark Event to try something new, meet new people, get connected with new opportunities and learn different skills.

The event runs from 10am until 3pm and free transport to and from the village hall is available. Those who need transport are asked to call 01362 698216 before the day.