PENSIONERS should play ping pong – that was the message from an awareness event held in Hampshire.

The event, held in Winchester and organised by Hampshire County Council, was attended by organisations across the county who work with older people.

Table tennis is meant to have physical and mental benefits for older people, as well as reducing social isolation.

Those attending watched a film by The English Table Tennis Association which followed eight older ping pong players, with a total of 703 years between them, who are taking part in an over-80s tournament in Inner Mongolia.

They also received a free pack which included a copy of the DVD and a table tennis net.

Councillor Anna McNair Scott, executive member for adult social care, said: “Ping pong is an activity that anyone can take part in, and I hope that through this awareness event more older people will be inspired to have a go.

“This is just one way we are addressing isolation and loneliness, by promoting a range of social and physical activities for people to get involved with, helping them live as independently as possible in their own homes.”

For more information, please contact Sophie Jevons, older people's well-being team, on 01962 846605, or email sophie.jevons@hants.gov.uk