Community pharmacies play a key role in supporting older people to live independently in their local community.

This holiday season, Age UK has released two videos telling the stories of two people living with little contact with others, to raise the awareness of loneliness.

Actor James Bolan tells the real-life story of Roy, an older man who became lonely after losing his wife of more than 40 years.

"It takes some getting used to, going from spending every single day for the past 55 years with the woman I love, to facing each day without her," he says.

Actor Miriam Margolyes tells the story of Janet, an older woman who hates Christmas because “nothing ever happens”.

Watch the videos here.

Age UK runs a telephone befriending service – Call in Time – that links volunteers with older members of the public, and an advice line on 0800 678 1174.

Anyone interested in volunteering for a weekly 30 minute befriending call, can sign up with Age UK online.