A NEW social group to help combat loneliness has formed in Hoyland.

Simon Davies arranged new weekly meetings – held every Monday evening – in a private room at Belmont Working Men’s Club, West Street.

He told the Chronicle: “I desperately wanted to do this for a long time but I was worried about what people would say – I’ve struggled with mental health, drug and alcohol abuse but now I’m in full recovery.

“I acknowledge now that I have to accept my mental health struggles and it puts me in a place where I can advise and support others.

“Starting the group has made me positively drive forward – it is helping me as well as others.”

The meetings are open to everyone and provide hot drinks and snacks with no cost.