New Rotherham vicar's campaign to stamp out loneliness

Rev Phil Batchford, who moved to Rotherham in September, said he had been told loneliness was a big problem by people in the town centre.

He is holding a meeting at Rotherham Minster to discuss the problem from noon to 2pm tomorrow (Tuesday).

Sandwiches and cake will be provided and those intending to attend should contact Rev Phil on 07722 984837.

He said: “I’ve been talking to people in the town centre and so many folk are telling me that they are lonely. 

“They don't have enough to do, and they don’t meet people. 

“Loneliness is becoming an epidemic in this country, and Rotherham is no exception. 

“People need natural ways to meet others and to do things which help them.

“We have some great ideas which we’d love to discuss so the meeting won't be boring — we want to know what skills and time people have to offer and how they can be rewarded for their time.”