WORLD famous cricket umpire Dickie Bird (right) is backing a charity to help pensioners in the Malvern area this Christmas.

The cricket legend has teamed up with Malvern-based charity Friends of the Elderly to help lonely and isolated pensioners,

"Friends has an excellent record of providing quality care services for people in need," he said.

"I'm very pleased to be supporting their Christmas appeal, and I'm sure that together we can make a real difference to the lives of frail older people."

Throughout the year, the charity responds to needs by providing a combination of practical assistance, monetary support and essential personal contact, but at Christmas their work is more important than ever.

"Christmas can be a difficult time for older people living alone. Loneliness at this time is often compounded by anxiety about not being able to afford to heat their homes.

"Hypothermia is a real risk. Each year Friends does all it can to help. Their support reaches out through community services and welfare grants.

"With your help, Friends will be able to help more older people look forward to a warm and happy Christmas this year."

The charity also offers social opportunities in clubs it runs at Geraldine Court and Alexander Gardens in the town.

As well as this, there are welfare grants to help those on low incomes. Grants will help take the form of a regular allowance, or money to pay for mobility aids, insulation and essential household repairs. Special winter comfort grants help people to keep their homes heated over the festive period.

"Whenever an older person is having difficulty coping, this caring charity can really make a difference to their quality of life," adds Mr Bird.

"Please spare a thought for those older people living alone and vulnerable this Christmas, and help Friends of the Elderly ."

Anyone wishing to give a donation should write to Friends of the Elderly Christmas Appeal, Freepost LON10034, London, SW1 0YJ, or call 020 7730 8263.