The launch of a project to help older people become more active in the community was judged "a great success".

Live Well, a scheme established by Community Action Hertsmere to help older people socialise, become more independent and involved in the community launched at Farriers Hall on January 31.

The eighteen month project, which is funded by the People’s Health Trust, is aimed at people over 50 living in the Hillside and Kenilworth wards in Borehamwood.

Stalls from Hertfordshire Adult and Family Learning Service (HAFL), Hertsmere Borough Watch, Age UK and Hertsmere Leisure provided visitors with snacks and information about their work and events for over 50s.

‘Live Well’ project manager Joy Nicholl said: “We have had a brilliant turnout today. The aim of this project is to help people become more active, physically and mentally and reduce isolation in older people. 

“We want to get back to the community spirit we used to have.”

Patricia Harris, who recently moved back to Borehamwood after living in Suffolk, saw the event as a way to find a way back into the community she had left years before and get to know people.

Mrs Harris said: “I love to talk to people, so today has been great. It has been very informative and the staff has been very friendly and helpful.”

Hertsmere Mayor, Councillor Paul Morris said: ‘Judging by the number of people that have turned up today, I would say it has been a great success. It’s really helpful for people to see what is on offer.

‘There is a multitude of things to do but people do not always realise what is available in the community’.

Mrs Nicholl wants to encourage older people to attend the 'coffee cakes and time to talk'events. She said: "Someone coming along to just one of our coffee afternoons a week is a 100 percent improvement."

‘Coffee, cakes and time to talk' sessions will take place in Farriers Hall  every Monday at 1pm from February 3, except February 10 and 17.