Retired meet Hull MP at Commons charity reception

The men and women, who spent their working lives at sea, are part of the Seafarers Link project, a telephone befriending group run by Community Network, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

They were given a warm welcome by the Home Secretary, who is also the MP for Hull West and Hessle.

Mr Johnson said: "I know of Community Network and the excellent work they do combating social isolation through the Seafarers Link group in my constituency.

"The work of this small charity has a huge impact on the lives of vulnerable people and I wish them every success in the future."

Guest speakers talked of the growing problem of social isolation and the work Community Network does to help isolated and marginalised people throughout the UK.

The speakers included Gail Mountain, who is the professor of health services research at Sheffield University; Dorothy Boswell, a facilitator at Parentline Plus; and Valerie Coleman of the Maritime Charities Funding Group, which is providing the funding for the award-winning Seafarers Link project.

Community Network chief executive Pat Fitzsimons said: "We're delighted that so many retired seafarers have travelled so far to join us this evening.

"The success of Seafarers Link highlights the positive impact that telephone befriending groups can have on the lives of older people and other vulnerable groups."

Community Network was established in 1990 following the success of a six-month research project into the social application of technology in Northern Ireland.

For more information about the network call 0845 619 9992, or visit www.community-network.org.