A TOWN council is hoping to reduce loneliness and isolation through a novel new scheme.  

Holsworthy Town Council has installed some new signs on benches dotted around the town, which have rebranded the resting spots as ‘chatty benches’ in the hope of encouraging friendly conversation between users. 

A spokesperson for Holswothy Town Council explained: “With the encouragement of the Community Developer (TTVS), Holsworthy Town Council have recently installed four ‘chatty bench’ signs .   

“The aim of the chatty bench scheme is to help reduce loneliness and isolation by providing an opportunity for people to sit down, have a chat and stay connected.   

“Do give them a try, as did local resident Ragna when out on one of her daily walks.

“Here she meets Sarah who has just moved into Holsworthy and was keen to hear all about the area and good places to enjoy a ramble. 

“Ragna loves her walks and she can be found on Facebook where she shares her wonderful photographs most days.”  

The four new chatty benches can be found dotted around the town, located in the square, Badock Gardens and two in Stanhope Park.