Elderly people in Stevenage can look forward to a more comfortable Christmas especially if they have lived in the new town since its foundation 70-years-ago.

Age Concern has decided to mark the special anniversary by issuing limited edition thermal mugs to elderly folks around town, so they can keep their Christmas drinks warm.

It is also distributing Keep Warm gift bags (pictured) which will contain a fleece blanket, cozy socks, gloves, a thermometer, useful emergency numbers, a wind up torch and cuppa soups.

But the charity needs people to nominate those who have lived in the town for 70 or more years or those who really need a little support this Christmas.

Age Concern’s chairwoman Sam Edwards said: “We want to reach out to older people in the community who aren’t able to get out much.

“It’s not always easy to find the right people but we would really love to give these packs to people who have been in the town for 70 years.

“I think it can be quite a desperate time for elderly people and they are often unaware that help is there. People shouldn’t have to feel lonely.”

To request one of the gift bags for someone you know, call 01438 314164.