GOOD Neighbours are looking for a new recruit as one of their members hangs up his telephone for the last time.

Voluntary group Menston Good Neighbours Scheme is searching hard for a replacement for co-ordinator Roderick Thompson, in its efforts to help the elderly of the village.

His job has involved taking calls at any time of day from elderly residents who need help with everyday tasks, then linking them up with a volunteer who is free to help.

Mr Thompson, 62, of Grove Road, is retiring after two years of his telephone-minding vigil, because of growing work commitments and caring for elderly relatives.

He said: "I came into it because my mother made some use of the scheme. Most of the volunteers own a car, but the co-ordinator doesn't need a car. As the co-ordinator you have a list of volunteers and then telephone around to find volunteers when a request comes in."

The scheme has helped elderly people in many ways, from fitting light bulbs, to going shopping, and even driving those without transport to appointments at the Wharfedale Hospital.

Sadly, the volunteers are no longer available to take people to hospital appointments in Leeds because of high parking charges and heavy city traffic.

The scheme receives some funding from Ilkley Voluntary Services, but volunteers pay for petrol and minor costs from their own pocket.

Mr Thompson, a former Bradford Grammar School teacher, has worked for a media training business and cared for his 97-year-old mother and 93-year-old aunt while acting as co-ordinator.

Now he feels he is unable to carry on the good work, and is looking for someone to volunteer as the next co-ordinator.

The group said the job would be suitable for someone with limited mobility, and are looking for a person with a friendly telephone manner.

Anyone interested in helping is asked to contact Mr Thompson on (01943) 877753.