As many as 13,000 people in Oxfordshire can go a whole month without speaking to anybody, according to new figures from Age UK.

Chief executive of the county’s branch of the elderly charity Mick Dillon called the stark new figures ‘tragic.’

He said: “It is tragic that loneliness is so prevalent today and having such a negative on so many people.

“We should all make a point of looking out for all our neighbours.”

In response, Age UK has launched a national campaign called ‘no one should have no one’ aimed at tackling loneliness in the elderly.

As part of the initiative Oxfordshire County Council Fire & Rescue will distribute 1,000 goodie bags filled with useful items and information to older vulnerable people.

Station manager for Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service Chris Barber said: “Christmas and the New Year can be lonely times of the year.

“Over the festive period please take a moment to check on elderly relatives, friends or neighbours and make sure they are safe and well.

“Age UK Oxfordshire is one of the partners we are working with to raise awareness of the support and services available to residents of Oxfordshire, helping them stay safe and well at home.”

For further information on how to help or to make a donation visit www.justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/ageukoxfordshire/noone or text AUK033 and the amount of your choice to 70070.