A COMMUNITY drop-in aimed at combating social isolation and loneliness was transformed into a special celebration to mark the end of summer recently.

Residents and staff at the Cockshaw Court sheltered housing scheme in Hexham, run by Karbon Homes, are no strangers to the weekly gathering each Thursday, which is aimed at uniting those who live there with the wider community.

But thanks to support from Tynedale Lions and Helping Hands, the event, held at the end of last month, included a barbecue and entertainment from a live singer.

Scheme officer at Cockshaw Court Andrea Alder said: “The drop-in sessions are held every Thursday from 11am and are open to the whole community.

“But thanks to the additional support, we were able to give residents something extra special on this occasion.”