New friendships were formed between the elderly and children... on a ‘talking bus’.

Children from Friars Primary School, in Constable Way, Shoebury, got chatting with elderly people from Southend’s Age Concern on Arriva’s ‘talking bus’.

The bus launched last week to help combat loneliness amongst older people as part of a collaboration between Arriva and Age Concern, a charity which offer support to older people.

The partnership will also help elderly people make the most of their concessionary bus pass, as well as forming intergenerational friendships with youngsters.

On February 26, children from the primary school boarded the bus and travelled to Southend Pier, where the group, whose ages ranged from nine to 11, tucked into lunch together, as well as hearing plenty of stories about their community.

Year six pupil Reece, who boarded the Talking Bus, described his day out. He said: “We were able to see some really interesting stuff and we got to go to a museum.

“That was really interesting, because we learned all about the First and Second World Wars.

“It was really interesting to hear some of the older people’s history.”

David Ward, treasurer for Age Concern in Southend, added: “The day was superb.

“We had a great time with children from Friars school. They were all really well behaved and had lots to tell us about their lives, and they were also interested in what’s gone on in our lives as well.

“Some people didn’t stop talking, so it was all very good. I hope we can do it again soon.”

Craig Taylor, marketing manager for Arriva Southern Counties, explained: “Loneliness amongst elderly people is a heartbreaking part of life in the UK today.

“We wanted to put one of our buses to good use to encourage young and older people to get out into their community, sharing important stories and memories from the past, to make sure those stories are never forgotten in the future.”