FORMER volunteer Glyn Loveday has returned to Leigh's Age Concern to make a difference to the lives of the elderly.

The new information and advice officer's services have proved so popular that appointments may be necessary for complicated inquiries.

Glyn's information and advice service has recently increased to three days a week - and inquiries have gone up by 54 per cent.

Office manager Marie Bent said: "Many older people will recall Glyn's hard work and dedication from previous years when he joined as a helper and then was on short-term contracts.

"Unfortunately, his post is still only short term and the organisation will be looking at ways to secure funding for the valuable and much-needed service."

His term has been paid for by grants from the Douglas Valley Community Fund and Coalfield Regeneration Trust.

Marie said: "We are delighted to welcome Glyn back.

"Leigh's elderly have difficulty accessing services at Wigan town centre and will often do without rather than go elsewhere for help.

"Older people in the town and surrounding areas have already started to see the difference in their lives brought about by Glyn's help in obtaining benefits, dealing with consumer rights and many more issues."

The office at 91, Bradshwagte, is open on Mondays, Tuesday and Thursday from 9.30am to 3pm.