AGE Cymru is celebrating its 40th year helping older people living in Gwent.

The charity, previously known as Age Concern Gwent, was set up in 1974 and is looking at ways to continue to deliver its services to a growing population of older people.

Eileen Powell, executive director of corporate services, said: “The organisation was first formed to provide information and support to older people on issues such as housing, welfare benefits and health.

“So much has changed in the last 40 years, remarkable innovation has taken place and new technologies have transformed many areas of our day to day life.

“Developments in health care and changes in lifestyle have helped to increase longevity and there are now more than 585,000 people aged over 65 in Wales compared to less than 400,000 in 1974.

“Despite all the developments, new technologies and changes to legislation, the core work of the charity remains that of supporting people in those same core areas of housing, finances and health.”

Ms Powell added that the charity has grown from a volunteer-only organisation in the 1970s to one that employs more than 130 staff and 120 volunteers.