ELDERLY people in Herefordshire facing a lonely winter are being offered reassurance from a 24-hour careline.

The service, run by Herefordshire Housing, helps people to continue living independently in their own homes by being available at all times should an emergency arise.

In winter, according to Age Concern figures, around one million elderly people are alone, leaving them vulnerable.

Careline operators will make 12,000 calls throughout January and February and will also receive more than 40,000 calls from people in need of help.

Simon Herdfield, operations manager of Herefordshire Careline, said: "It is really nice to brighten up someone's day with a quick phone call, especially during the cold and dark months."

Based in Hereford, the Careline control centre is connected to homes through telephone lines and allows clients to contact them by either pushing a button or using a pendant worn around the neck.

The service also caters for domestic abuse victims, the housebound and those recently discharged from hospital.

For more details, call 01432 384100.