Stroud's intergenerational social club, Interplay, is looking for volunteers to help it continue.

The group, which brings together the elderly and young children, is the brainchild of Stroud mum-of-two, Beki Aldam, 36.

It was conceived thanks to Beki's own experience of missing the company of older and extended members of her family while bringing up her young daughters in Stroud.

"That my own parents live abroad for half the year mirrors many of the experiences of friends who were also feeling somewhat isolated when having young children," Beki says.

"I felt that equally chimed with the isolation that can be felt by older people."

As Beki says, our society is increasingly migratory and transitory.

"Families are often far away or not around and it results in the generations missing out on each other."

The outcome was that Beki established a weekly social group where, somewhat unusually, all ages including the very elderly, are welcomed along with little tots and their parents.

It's all part of Beki's endeavour to foster an inclusive community that welcomes all ages.

"Communities don't always function as cohesively as they used to," she says.

Beki admits that she had been nurturing the idea for a few years before the social group launched last December.

But since then the group has been steadily attracting attendees of all ages and abilities with many saying how much they value the opportunity to mingle with older people.

Ella Hoskins says: "It's a warm and inviting group where all generations were benefitting from spending time with each other. It is wonderful."

Activities at the session include arts and crafts which all ages and abilities are invited to take part in. 

"The group is open to all - young, old and all those in between," says Beki.

"If you know of a friend who would benefit from meeting new friends of all ages, then please come and meet the Interplay group.

"The group is particularly looking for more elderly attendees so please don't be shy, get in touch!"

Interplay is held every Wednesday at 9.30am at Stroud Baptist Church Hall, John Street

If you would like to volunteer at the group or would enjoy getting involved, please contact Beki on 07593 365 767