A THOUGHTFUL project has been launched to tackle loneliness.

Seats across Knutsford have been designated ‘Happy to Chat’ benches to encourage people who feel a bit sad or isolated to reach out.

Laminated signs have been fitted to certain benches across the town saying 'Sit here if you don't mind someone stopping to say hello'.

The idea is to encourage passing dog walkers, joggers, parents with pushchairs and teenagers with headphones to spend just a couple of minutes chatting to a stranger.

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The idea was first launched by a woman in Cardiff in 2019 and has since spread all over the world.

Knutsford has now joined towns across the UK to promote the scheme.

Paul Buttrick, president of Knutsford Lions said “The chatty bench project was set by Mike Goldman of the Lions with Knutsford Town Council before Covid-19 struck.

“It is lovely for people to be able to sit in the sunshine and chat freely again after almost two years of the isolation.”

Loneliness is one of the most significant health concerns and has been demonstrated to be as detrimental to health as smoking and worse than obesity.

More than half a million older people across the country can go for more than five days without seeing or speaking to anyone.

Around 40 per cent of the elderly say television is their main company.

The benches provide an opportunity for those who would appreciate a chat.

The idea for the scheme had been raised with the council by a number of community groups and residents and was delivered in partnership with Knutsford Lions.

Town clerk Adam Keppel-Green said: “If you spot someone sat on one of the town’s new Happy to Chat benches, consider stopping a while to say hello.

“You don’t know the difference it may make to their day and their health.”

'Happy to Chat' benches have been designated at Ash Court, King Edward Road, Wallwood, Paradise Green, Bexton Road, St John’s Church grounds, Toft Road outside St John’s Church, Courthouse garden, Library garden and The Heath.

Benches have been selected for the scheme where there is an alternative seat nearby for those who prefer quiet reflection.