With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, shops and restaurants in Cranleigh are getting into the romantic spirit, displaying hearts and flowers galore in their windows. While February is undoubtedly a month for love and relationships, we thought we’d switch the focus and celebrate the importance of friendship and community too.

Research has shown that loneliness can be a real problem across the UK -  around 17% of older people are in contact with family, friends and neighbours less than once a month.

The Campaign to End Loneliness highlights the fact that involvement in community activities and local projects helps to alleviate loneliness, while also improving mental and physical wellbeing.

Here in Cranleigh, the vibrant sense of community is something that residents new and old frequently comment upon. From the Community Choir to the Camera Club, there are scores of activities happening every single week.

For older people, living in a retirement village is a great way to build a rich and rewarding network of social relationships. We’re specialists in the sale of retirement properties, and we are currently the appointed agent for Elmbridge Village and Hesketh Close retirement villages. Click here to view our available retirement properties for sale.

Take Five

Whether you’ve recently moved to Cranleigh, or you’re a long-term resident who fancies expanding your social circle, how can you get involved in village life? Below, we’ve picked a list of five clubs and social hubs – but this represents just a small random selection! For more information on all these clubs and many more, visit the Cranleigh Village Community Website at www.cranleighvillage.net.

U3A Cranleigh and District – Founded twenty years ago, this branch of the University of the Third Age has over 920 members and 54 groups which meet in Cranleigh and surrounding villages. Bowls, bridge, current affairs, history, jazz, walking and wine appreciation – whatever you’re interested in, you’re bound to find like-minded folk at U3A!

Cranleigh Arts Centre – Running a variety of interesting events, including films, stand-up comedy acts, live music and hands-on workshops, this thriving arts centre is open to all. Visit www.cranleighartscentre.org for a full programme of events, including details of the annual literary festival which starts this month.

Cranleigh Community Choir – All are welcome to this popular local choir. You don’t have to audition, you don’t have to be able to read music, but you DO need to be able to sing in tune! There are regular concerts and a varied repertoire – why not try a free taster session to see if it’s for you?

Wey and Arun Canal Trust – This wonderful Loxwood-based charity has restored much of the stagnant Wey & Arun Canal, bringing the waterway back to life with boat trips and ongoing conservation work. Volunteers are always needed, both for administrative support and outdoor working parties.

Cranleigh Writers’ Group – Do you dream of publishing the next bestselling novel? Perhaps you enjoy writing poetry, plays or short stories? This group meets fortnightly, offering members the opportunity to read aloud their works-in-progress, and benefit from friendly encouragement and advice.

We hope you’ll agree that there’s plenty to keep Cranleigh residents active and sociable this February and beyond. If you’d like to know more about our retirement villages, or any other information about the local area, please pop into our High Street office or give us a call on 01483 268555. As dedicated experts on Cranleigh and the surrounding villages, we’re always happy to share the love!