AN inspirational documentary on the council's befriending service has been nominated for a top award at an international film festival.

Navneet Jha's short film on the service, which is delivered by the authority's neighbourhoods team, has been selected as one of the contenders for an accolade at the Rajasthan International Film Festival.

The festival in the northern Indian state begins this Saturday and runs until next Wednesday.

Bewsey resident Mr Jha was inspired to produce the film after witnessing the 'life-changing impact' it has on residents.

He said: "The main aim of a befriending service is to reduce social isolation and reach out to those who feel lonely and isolated.

"Through interviews and discussions, the film captures the stories of people receiving and providing the befriending service, as well as the positive impact it has had on their lives."

Mr Jha also picked out one of the most memorable parts of the documentary.

He added: "One of the highlights of the film is the story of Ellen, a few days shy of her 100th birthday.

"Her positive outlook towards life and determination to smile against all odds is inspirational.

"It is hoped that the film will help in creating an awareness on the necessity to beat loneliness and inspire people to contribute in their own way to strengthen the community."

Warrington Guardian:

Mr Jha praised all who took part in the documentary, including Cllr Tony Higgins, Warrington South MP Faisal Rashid and Anne Livings, from the council's neighbourhoods team.

Cllr Higgins, executive board member for leisure and community, hailed Mr Jha for his efforts.

He said: "I'm immensely proud of the work our neighbourhoods team do every day to tackle loneliness within our community.

"The befriending service is a great initiative, which helps many of our older residents feel less socially isolated, so I was more than happy when Navneet contacted me to offer his kind services to help promote it through a film.

"Hearing that this film is nominated for a prestigious award is great news for Navneet and for the befriending service, so well done to all."

Mr Jha will also be releasing a film on the English Half Marathon in the near future to highlight how it benefits residents across Warrington.

To view the 25-minute film click here.

For more information about the event head to the RIFF Jaipur – Rajasthan International Film Festival Facebook page.