A new service which gives lonely over-65s a chance to enjoy a regular chat has been launched by broadband provider TalkTalk.

Known as We'll Call You, the new free service allows pensioners to enjoy weekly chats of no more than five minutes with a TalkTalk staff member about any topics they would like to discuss, from news to TV shows or celebrity gossip.

In addition, they can also request details about local services or events from the caller.

Mark Schmid, Communications Director of TalkTalk, said the aim of the project is not to replace social services or charities, but provide people with a regular call from a friendly voice.

He added: "With the number of older people living alone passing the four million mark the launch of our service is very timely."

News of the scheme has come after TalkTalk revealed it is offering all UK households the chance to enjoy five free votes for ITV1's hit show Dancing on Ice.