Since then the group has enjoyed enormous popularity, with its Facebook page boasting more than 600 members.

A new but familiar home – at the Singleton Public Library, is the latest icing on the cake, according to Singleton Welcoming Committee’s Kelly Cederblad.

“We’ve outgrown our venue, so we recently returned to the library,” she said.

“We’re getting really good numbers to our meetings.

“Although it can change from month-to-month, we’ve had a lot of new faces in 2014.”

The brainchild of Michelle Higgins, Rachel Furniss, Heidi Scheinecker and Mrs Cederblad, the Singleton Welcoming Committee was set up to do just that – as well as connect people, especially those experiencing the isolation that moving to a new town brings.

“All four of us came from different places,” Mrs Cederblad explains.

“I, myself, had moved eight times in 10 years.

“So, we saw a need for a group like the Singleton Welcoming Committee.

“And, with the help of Louise, we meet on the first Wednesday of each month from 9.30am – now at the library.

“It’s all very informal and a chance to socialise in a friendly environment.

“People often move to town but don’t know anyone.

“It can be hard.

“However, they’re not alone – and this is the message we want to get out.

“Locals even come along and their knowledge of the area is very useful.

“We feel we’re doing a good thing in Singleton.

“There is no age limit; and men and women are welcome to join our group.”