A forum set up by Scarborough Council to get the views of residents in the borough's southern area has underlined how difficult it can be for many older people to access services and shops in particular.

Now forum members are putting together a directory for pensioners which can be distributed via groups such as Age Concern.

The idea is that businesses serving the elderly will be able to advertise free.

Pauline Elliott, the council's head of regeneration and planning services, said: "The group have started to put together
a directory and hope that local businesses within the southern area will take the opportunity to advertise their services.

"It will be aimed specifically at local shops which will deliver or other groups and organisations that offer other helpful services, such as bulky item collection and help with internet access.

"Inclusion into this directory will be offered for free and the directory will be distributed locally and made available to people through Age Concern and other local groups."