A hairdresser opens up her shop to the elderly and those who are lonely by offering them free cakes and a chat.

Our community hero this week, Veronica Bentham, 70, from Watford works at Poppy's Hairdressers in South Oxhey.

She opened the doors two years ago to elderly people in the community and those who might be lonely due to a lack of shops in the area.

She said: "The shops are being closed down because South Oxhey is being regenerated.

"It is one of those communities where everyone knows each other."

Ms Bentham noticed elderly people in the community didn't have a place to go to meet friends and catch up.

So she placed tables and chairs at the front of the shop and brought in complimentary treats and hot drinks.

She said around five women come in everyday to the shop and stay for a few hours to chat.

Ms Bentham added: "We had a few women say it has made a big difference as they said they have nowhere else to go.

"I like having them come in and so do customers because it makes a nice atmosphere."

Ms Bentham said the shop will be closing within three weeks and is worried about where they will go afterwards.

She said: "A lot of elderly people came here 60 years ago when there were new builds.

"And they built a community here. They're unhappy about my shop closing. Everyone is really sad."

Ms Bentham said staff offer people a chat if they are alone as they may not have family close by or anywhere else where they can go. Susie Barnes who nominated Ms Bentham said: "She is a great stylist and offers people, who are often elderly or lonely, a much appreciated complimentary service giving them a welcoming place to come for tea, biscuits and a chat at any time, which is not provided by the busy local cafes.

"The salon will be closing in a few weeks and Veronica and her lovely team will be missed by the local community."