“I was linked up with Mary in August and I now call her every Wednesday.
“Isolation and loneliness is so terrible for your mental health and I was really worried seeing what was happening with lockdown. I hated the thought of people being on their own or not being able to get out during the pandemic. I just wanted to do something to help.”
Mrs Houston says they have developed a strong connection.
She added: “I love chatting to Mary. We found out early on that we both had a passion for youth work and it’s great find out about her life and she asks me about mine. It’s so relaxed and informal. I really enjoy it.