A volunteer scheme for adults with learning disabilities marked its 10th anniversary with a packed birthday earlier this month.

The Buddy Scheme provides isolated individuals with the simple pleasure of friendship by pairing people with volunteers who share similar interests.

The special event was held at Kingsmeadow and MP for Kingston and Surbiton, Edward Davey, led everyone in a chorus of happy birthday before cutting the cake with some of the scheme’s members.

The venue danced the night away and enjoyed a live set by Heavy Load, a band which support the evening’s mantra, and national campaign, Stay Up Late.

Project co-ordinator Paul Vitty said: “The event was a great success with the dance floor full from doors opening to close. It was great to see so many of our members gathered together.

“Befriending is a unique way to help some of society’s most socially isolated. By giving just a few hours in a fun activity you can radically alter and enhance someone’s life.”

Many of the leisure activities we take for granted can seem daunting to an adult with learning disabilities and doing something as simple as going for a monthly pint with someone could radically change their life.

For more information, visit kcv.org.uk/buddyscheme or call 020 8255 8068.

For more events in your area, visit surreycomet.co.uk/events