'Happy to talk' plaques have been placed on benches in four of Cheshire East's parks following a suggestion by a local resident of how we can, "all reach out to those in need."

Plaques have been placed on existing benches in Crewe's Queens Park, Macclesfield's West Park and South Park and Sandbach Park.

The idea was brought to Cheshire East Council's parks team by Sutton resident Debbie Coppack, who is a regular visitor of both West Park and South Park in Macclesfield. She has also visited Queens Park on occasions when in the area.

Debbie said: "I was in the park one day and bumped into a lady. She told me that the only reason she came to the park was to talk to people and that if she didn't, she wouldn't get to speak to anyone.

"It really struck me just how lonely some people can be, and how powerful a quick chat can be to someone.

"It really can make all the difference to their day, and I wanted to be able to do something positive to help people and encourage more conversations."

The Campaign to End Loneliness organisation found that as the COVID-19 pandemic went on, people found it harder to make conversation with one another.

It is hoped the plaques will act as a conversation starter and give people sitting on one of the benches a prompt 'to reach out'.

Debbie, who is a carer, added: "Human interaction is really important, and loneliness can lead to serious mental and physical health issues.

"But sometimes people don't know how to reach out to ask for help, or likewise to reach out to offer support.