ACCRINGTON Stanley players have taken time out of their promotion push to help launch a new cafe scheme to help people combat loneliness.

Stanley's Jimmy Dunne, who is on loan from Burnley, and Offrande Zanzala have helped Community Solutions North West (CSNW) launch their new Chatty Café scheme in Church.

The scheme involves having a ‘Chatter & Natter’ table in their café at Elmfield Hall, Gatty Park.

Organisers said the 'Chatter & Natter' table creates a space for people to talk; whether it’s for five minutes for a brew, or an hour of good conversation.

It aims to provide simple interactions to combat loneliness and to just maybe have a big impact on someone’s day.

Dunne and Zanzala cut the ribbon on the table and spoke to staff and volunteers. Along with Winstanley they also stayed around for a chatter & natter themselves.

Defender Dunne said: "It’s a great idea to have somewhere where local people who might feel a bit isolated and lonely to come and have some company without feeling nervous or intimidated."

Forward Zanzala said: "It’s great for us as players to get out and meet the community, Accrington Stanley is a real community club and supporting things like this is all part of engaging with the local people."

Hyndburn MP Graham Jones also attended the launch of the scheme.

The cafe is open Monday to Friday, 10am until 4pm and the dedicated 'Chatty Cafe' tables are clearly marked.