Raelene Blackledge, or Nutgirl as she prefers to be called, is the motivating force behind men's singing group The Mixed Nuts.

She decided to do something five years ago while working at the Anglican Retirement Village, Castle Hill.

``In aged-care facilities men are terribly isolated and don't socialise,'' she said.

``They have lost their role as a provider. They may have lost their spouse; they have lost their identity.''

Many of the 14-strong Mixed Nuts, average age 87, are World War II veterans. It includes an accountant, an ex-VFL player and an Anglican Church reverend.

Ms Blackledge said: ``I took them to the club once and they came home singing, so we started from there. It became really good for the men in terms of grief and loss.

``They sang at one of the Nuts' funeral recently.

``It really is quite moving, and for men to express themselves emotionally is normally very tricky.

``This is a way to confront their feelings and realise they have a kinship with their mates through singing.''

Ms Blackledge, the mother of two teenage daughters, admits she has no musical background.

``I can't sing a note,'' she laughs.

She chooses the songs some work and some don't and the group takes it from there, rehearsing weekly.

To date the group has performed in more than 116 locations and raised thousands for charity.

``One of the best things for me is when we walk into a venue and people look and think, `Is this the entertainment?' '' she said.

``But just wait till the magic begins. It's fabulous.

``I love that they are still living their lives; that they've never got old up top. With a bit of encouragement and a bit of assistance the Mixed Nuts have proved you are never too old.''

The Mixed Nuts fourth CD, Over and Out, will be available in late September. Details: 96340539.