A NEW bench in a Chester park is set to become a talking point – literally!

The idea is that the seating can be used by anyone who might be feeling lonely or just wants a good natter with a stranger.

Located in the Sunken Garden on Hoole Way, the ‘talking bench’ will complement the recently added eco trees and plants in the area.

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s (CWaC) localities team brought the idea of a ‘talking bench’ to life and hope it will prove popular.

Cllr Louise Gittins, council leader and Cabinet Member for Wellbeing, said: “The sign by the bench says it all; small talk can make a big difference. This area in the sunken garden is for anybody who fancies a chat. Not everyone is confident to start a conversation with someone they don’t know; our new bench is the ice-breaker.

"As the festive season approaches and residents are busy rushing around, please remember that there are many people across the borough who may feel lonely. Take some time to have a chat with family members, friends and neighbours as this can help to brighten up someone’s day.”

It has already got the thumbs-up from city resident Linda Jones, who joined community group ‘Chatter Chairs’ several months ago, where she has been able to socialise and make new, long-lasting friends.

Linda said: "The ‘talking bench’ is a great idea as I know there are so many people out there who feel lonely and may not have family living nearby. It’s a way to look out for your neighbours and brings communities together.”

Research by the British Red Cross and Co-Op in 2016, found over nine million people in the UK, almost a fifth of the population, say they are always or often lonely, but almost two thirds feel uncomfortable admitting it.

Age UK say 3.6 million older people in the UK live alone, of whom over two million are aged 75 plus and that loneliness can be as harmful for our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

CWaC is working closely with key partners to create Age-friendly Cheshire West, helping to reduce loneliness and bring people of all ages together to live happy, healthy and enjoyable lives.

The aim is to make Cheshire West and Chester a great place to live and grow older.

People can find out more about Age-friendly Cheshire West and people of all ages can get involved in key projects and activities by visiting www.agefriendlycheshirewest.org

There are many community groups taking place across the borough that people can get involved in. To find out more, visit https://livewell.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk