HUNDREDS of vulnerable and isolated Bradford residents have been given a vital digital lifeline thanks to a district wide charity fundraising effort.

This week saw 300 state-of-the-art tablets and scores of internet dongles distributed across the Bradford district to locked-down people who otherwise would have no way of communicating with the outside world.

The devices will enable recipients to access up-to-date news about Covid 19, engage with friends and set up get-togethers on virtual meeting platforms. Key workers will also be able to see people directly and speak to them using the tablet.

The idea was the brainchild of Sue Crowe, manager of BTM, a local charity that specialises in improving access to information for all.

Sue worked with local charities, businesses, the council and healthcare providers to raise nearly £39,000, which she used to purchase the consignment of Smart 10 Lenovo tablets.

Donna, one of the recipients, said "This couldn’t have come at a better time. It’s my birthday soon so will be so great to see people.”