International recognition for Rochdale-based volunteer driver scheme

A volunteer driver scheme in Greater Manchester has become a global leader in tackling isolation among older people. HMR Circle offers lifts to hospital appointments and social events to hundreds of people in Rochdale, Heywood and Middleton.

It also organises social events such as ten-pin bowling, lunch clubs, and theatre trips, all of which are suggested by members.

It's been so successful that it's been asked to advise politicians from Japan, the USA and South Korea on how to prevent loneliness in their ageing populations.

Andrew Fletcher reports.