A Henley woman has said palliative care charity Sue Ryder's befriending scheme has been an "absolute lifeline" for her and her brother after their mum's terminal cancer diagnosis.

Jo Yarranton, 55, and her brother Alan struggled to look after their 81-year-old mother, Pat Edmiston, after her diagnosis at the beginning of the year.

Balancing full-time jobs with the responsibility of care, they found themselves overwhelmed.

Then, Ms Yarranton and her mum received a visit from the team at Sue Ryder, who provided advice and support, and referred them to the befriending service.

Ms Yarranton said: "Sue Ryder’s befriending service has been an absolute lifeline for all of us.

"Mum’s volunteer befriender Anne comes round to her house every Wednesday.

"Anne told me about the local day centre and took Mum along, and now she goes down on her own every week, and absolutely loves it.

"She’s gone from sitting on her own watching TV all day, going from hospital appointment to hospital appointment, to being out and about, going shopping, or out for coffee.

"It’s given her a renewed sense of purpose and energy. Now when I see her at the weekend, she’s always tired because she’s done so much in the week, and just wants to relax."

Befriender Anne Bucknell, from Reading, has been volunteering for Sue Ryder for 18 months.

Having experienced cancer twice herself, she has a personal understanding of what people are going through.

She said: "I was matched with Pat, who is just the nicest lady one could ever ask for.

"She had gone into her shell since getting diagnosed, but I am a real people person and have loved getting to know Pat and getting her out and about again.

"She has taken up knitting, and recently knitted a jumper for one of her grandchildren.

"She makes cards for a local shop, and I take her out for coffee, or we go for walks.

"I find it so gratifying because I’m not sure Pat would have been doing any of this unless I’d come on the scene.

“I would recommend befriending to anyone. It’s really rewarding."

Ms Edmiston, who lives in Twyford, near Henley, added: "Anne introducing me to the local day centre has really made such a difference to my week.

"I enjoy a hot lunch, singing, and crafting, and I’m really looking forward to showing everyone how to make Christmas wreaths later this year.

"Also, now that I don’t drive anymore, Anne can take me to the shops, rather than having to always get the bus, which is such a great help."