–A CHARITY that supports older people in Ludlow and Tenbury has itself reached 70 and wants people to help it raise money that has been in short supply in recent months,

Age UK has shops in both Ludlow and Tenbury but its fund raising has been hit by a prolonged period of enforced closure earlier in the year.

Both towns have a high proportion of older people meaning that more are in the vulnerable groups.

The charity is asking people across Shropshire to take on a ‘Platinum Challenge’ and raise funds to support older people in their community.

Last November the charity launched the Platinum Appeal to raise an ambitious target of £150,000 to support older people in three key areas: reducing loneliness and isolation, supporting those living with dementia and keeping older people informed with information and advice.

Due to the pandemic the appeal had to be put on hold with all events and celebrations cancelled. Staff and volunteers at the charity quickly adapted their services and refocused their efforts on making sure older people received the vital support they needed during lockdown. Walk, run, cycle, venture up one of the famous Shropshire hills or take a walk in the park or garden, anything can be a Platinum Challenge. Visit the website to sign up or call 01743 233 123.