A charity helping pensioners overcome loneliness through their love of West Ham United has come runner up in a national award.

Newham Recorder: It has helped more than 60 pensioners since it launched in 2015. Pic: KEN MEARSIt has helped more than 60 pensioners since it launched in 2015. Pic: KEN MEARS (Image: Archant)

Charity Friends of the Elderly and the West Ham United Football Foundation’s joint project, Any Old Irons, launched in 2015 was shortlisted for partnership of the year gong at the Third Sector Awards.

Sally McLachlan from the charity said: “We are thrilled to have been runner up for such a prestigious award.”

The five week scheme helps older football fans make friends by going on stadium tours, sharing stories and meeting West Ham players.

Participant Don Adams said: “This recognition is well deserved because the programme has brought so much joy to so many people.

Newham Recorder: It has helped more than 60 pensioners since it launched in 2015. Pic: KEN MEARSIt has helped more than 60 pensioners since it launched in 2015. Pic: KEN MEARS (Image: Archant)

“Loneliness can be a real issue as you get older, especially if you lose your husband of wife. Having a shared passion like West Ham has given me a way to connect with people again. It’s the highlight of my week.”