PEOPLE in Ludlow and south Shropshire are known to enjoy good quality locally brewed beer and have been given a great reason to raise a glass to salute a new campaign.

The Campaign for Real Ale has launched a campaign to promote the important role that pubs play in tackling loneliness and social isolation, such as offering free dinners for the elderly or hosting chatty table schemes.

Now the Campaign to End Loneliness has also thrown its support behind the initiative, providing resources and materials for both pub-goers and licensees looking to organise events.

Robin Hewings, director of campaigns, policy and research at the Campaign to End Loneliness said: “There are nine million lonely people in the UK, and about four million of those are older people. They lack the companionship, friendship and support we all need.

“In our own polling, we found that pubs are the place that people feel most comfortable starting conversations in. Pubs are a great space for people to connect. Even just a small chat can make a big difference to someone who feels lonely.” Camra is encouraging pub-goers to share what their local means to them using the hashtag #mypubstory.