A charity faces closure unless kind hearted volunteers step in to save the day.

Age Concern in Benfleet is calling for people who can spare just a couple of hours a week to help their ageing neighbours.

Shutdown worry - Valerie Wells, of Age Concern, Benfleet, needs new volunteers Picture: ROB BROWNE

But if the bid proves unsuccessful, elderly residents in the Benfleet and Hadleigh areas could be forced to trek to either Canvey or Southend for help and advice.

Age concern spokeswoman Dorothy Axford said: "Volunteers are essential to us. Without them we couldn't stay open.

"We help elderly residents in a variety of ways. If the branch closed, it could prove very upsetting and it would definitely be a huge shame for residents."

Published Wednesday, May 28, 2003

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