A RANGE of new activity groups have been set up in Okehampton, aimed at anybody over 50.

The groups will offer a variety of activities, including gentle exercise, singing, paper craft, sewing, poetry, art and board games.

There will also be a film club, a book club, a group to listen to music from the 1940s and 1950s, and a support group for stroke survivors and carers.

The scheme has been organised by the Time for Life service, which helps combat social isolation, alongside Castle Ham Lodge, the new Extra Care Housing facility at the renovated old hospital on Castle Road, provided by the Guinness Trust.

The groups will take place mainly in the late morning and early afternoon at Castle Ham Lodge, where there are several community rooms and plans for a café.

Okehampton Community Transport is already looking at the feasibility of using a minibus or volunteer car drivers to help with transportation.

Ali Fife from Time for Life said: 'We're now in need of volunteers and tutors.

'The most important qualification for a volunteer is enthusiasm. Tutors need specific skills but there will be funding available, so payment can be made to those offering their expertise.'

Anybody interested in volunteering should visit the Volunteer Bureau on East Street, or http://www.do-it.org.uk">www.do-it.org.uk

The scheme is being funded by Devon County Council, and delivered throughout Devon by a consortium of Westbank, Upstream, AgeUK Devon and Age Concern Exeter.

A leaflet is now available which outlines the proposed groups. The leaflet can be obtained from Castle Ham Lodge, Okehampton Library, the Okehampton Times office, and various other places around the area.

Anybody interested can also contact Ali Fife on 01822 810897 or email [email protected]">[email protected]