Police in Sevenoaks have gone above and beyond to help someone this Christmas.

After responding to a concern about a person's welfare yesterday, December 20, Kent Police found a woman in her 80s who they said was lonely.

Officers stayed with her in her home, did her washing up and even changed her light bulbs.

One of the officers is planning on visiting her on Christmas Day to check on her and keep her company.

According to Age UK, more than 1.4m older people said their days are repetitive and admit that Christmas just passes them by.

Loneliness has been proven to be as harmful to health as smoking and obesity, a fact recognised by several people thanking the police for their gesture on social media.

Replying to Sevenoaks police's tweet, one person said: "That's brought a tear to my eye, what sort of world are we living in whne the only visit she gets is from the police. My upmost respect, pride and love for your caring police officer. Let's check on our lonely neighbours."

Another person said: "That's what is going beyond the call of duty."

The tweet has been liked more than 1,000 times.

Age UK provides free, confidential advice for older people and their families. For more information call Age UK on 0800 055 6112