North Norfolk MP Norman Lamb was the guest of honour at a tea party celebrating North Walsham Good Neighbour Scheme's successful first year of operation.

Joining the Scheme's volunteers and helpers at the town's Atrium venue to mark the occasion were local residents who have been helped in the past year, along with representatives of associated local groups and organisations.

Since September last year, the North Walsham Scheme has trained 29 volunteers, received 241 enquiries from 93 different people. This resulted in 192 visits to local residents, undertaking 187 tasks not only befriending, shopping, giving lifts and household tasks but also encompassing a wide range of other helpful activities.

Chairman Peter Tobitt said: 'We're keen to build a network of support in our community to enable people to live independent and purposeful lives. We give practical short term help to anyone in North Walsham who needs and requests it. One-off jobs might be things like changing a light bulb, filling in a form or walking the dog.'

More information about how the scheme works, what services can be provided, and how to volunteer or donate can be found at www.nwgoodneighbour.org.uk