THE community in Addingham is rallying round to support elderly and vulnerable residents during the coronavirus crisis.

Addingham Village Support Group has been set up by Addingham Parish Council, Addingham Civic Society and other groups and organisations in the village in the face of the ongoing pandemic.

This week a leaflet, funded by the parish council and organised by the civic society, has been posted through every letter box in the village asking if people need help or if they can volunteer to help.

Volunteering opportunities include helping neighbours with jobs such as putting out the bin, posting letters, picking up a newspaper or a delivery, shopping, phone calls or walking the dog.

It also contains information about the virus, what to do if you have symptoms.

Jim Robinson, chairman of Addingham Civic Society said: “It is heart warming to see how the village has responded to this initiative, the support from many organisations including of course our Parish Council, has been overwhelming.

“Many local residents have already come forward to offer help to those who are really struggling from day to day in these difficult and somewhat surreal times.”

Catherine Coates, chair of Addingham Parish Council added: “I have always been proud of my role in Addingham because of the amazing community spirit it has. No more so than now when we face the unknown.

“The work being led by the Civic Society and Addingham Good Neighbours is truly inspiring.

“Before any local or government initiatives were introduced these amazing individuals got together to set up a network of help for our community.

“We now have in place a network of volunteers to help those isolated and we are now gathering information of those that need help.

“The support we are seeing from local businesses should also be recognised, as they face financial uncertainty.

“I know local street initiatives have been set up and again this should be applauded.

“A massive thank you has to go out to you all in whatever role you play - key workers/volunteers. I implore you all to take care and stay safe.”

The contact details for those in the village of Addingham requiring help and for those who are willing to provide it, are mobile: 07470 537421 and 01943 831758 (answer machine) or email Addingham Parish Clerk, Jane Markham at: clerk@addingham-pc.gov.uk

If you think you might have contracted the virus check your symptoms on the NHS 111 website. Search “111 NHS Coronavirus” or go to https://111.nhs.uk.covid-19