A WANTAGE author has invited people to help her launch a local branch of a Christian aid movement founded in the horrors of the First World War.

Linda Parker is planning to launch a "Wessex" chapter of the international charity Toc H to galvanise more spiritual volunteer work in the community.

Wantage last had an active branch of the group in the 1960s, and Mrs Parker hopes to revive interest and expand the venture to surrounding towns and villages.

A national trustee of the organisation, she recently authored a biography of Rev Clayton and felt the time was right to launch a Wantage branch.

She explained: "The movement is based on the four points of the compass: friendship, service, fair-mindedness, and witness.

"The branches work out these principles by responding to the needs of the local community, so the work of the Toc H branches is different, but some examples include work with veterans; forming of friendship groups, from toddlers to senior citizens; work in local hospitals, conservation, but always responding to local need."

Mrs Parker held an inaugural get-together for people interested in setting up a Wantage branch in February.

She said: "Many ideas were discussed in which ways the branch could serve the community, including organising a volunteer fair under one roof so that volunteer organisations can liaise and also attract new people.

"Eventually it was decided that the next step would be a public meeting to publicise the branch and widen our membership."

That meeting is now set to be held on April 27.

Anyone interested in joining or finding out more should email lindamparker56@gmail.com or to learn about the international movement go to toch-uk.org.uk