A Portslade charity has been awarded for its work helping lonely, elderly residents.

Time to Talk Befriending, which works in Brighton and Hove, Adur, and Worthing, has been given the King's Award for Voluntary Service, the equivalent of an MBE for charities.

The charity, which was founded in 2013, has helped more than 2,500 older people to "feel in the world again" by pairing them with volunteer befrienders and chaplains.

Emily Kenward, founder and CEO, said: "Before older people are referred to our service they are often hidden behind the four walls of their homes, invisible to the outside world.

"So, it is a privilege to provide opportunities for meaningful connections across the generations.

"As a result, we literally see lonely people come to life again."

The charity will receive the award in the new year from the Lord-Lieutenant, the King's representative, and be invited to a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace.

For more information about the charity, visit tttb.org.uk or call 01273 737710.