• Lonely Christmas Tree.

The partnership has teamed up with Age Concern New Forest East to urge residents to show extra consideration for elderly residents over Christmas and New Year.

While many enjoy the festive celebrations, the holiday season can be a lonely time for pensioners living on their own.

With local services shutting down and people moving away over Christmas, residents are being asked to keep an eye out for elderly neighbours.

As well as feeling isolated, lots of elderly people worry about their health and safety.

"Posting a Christmas card to an elderly neighbour is a good way of letting them know you are there," said Jean Adams, business manager at Age Concern New Forest East. "Putting a contact number on a card also means they can get in touch if they want to talk about any worries or concerns."

Cllr Maureen Holding, NFDC's portfolio holder for health and social inclusion said: "Christmas can be an especially lonely time for pensioners living on their own. It can be very comforting for them to know there is someone they can contact and talk to over Christmas."

For more information contact Jean Adams, business manager, at Age Concern New Forest East on 023 8084 1199.