SUTTON Scotney is on the hunt for several volunteers to spend a few hours each week helping the elderly in the village.

Age Concern Hampshire and the county council have joined forces to help pensioners living in outlying areas remain independent in the communities they know well for as long as possible.

The aim is for each participating village to have a pair of experts who can give elderly residents advice on anything from applying for a Blue Badge parking permit to transport for medical appointments, company at meal times and help around the home.

A Sutton Scotney Parish Council meeting has agreed to ask residents if they would be interested in joining the scheme.

The pair would be asked to work between four and six hours a week between them and receive training from the Fire Service, Hampshire County Council and attend a one-day Mental Awareness Course.

Anyone interested in volunteering should call the Village Agents team on 01962 892451.