Coronavirus: Helston community creates World War I style emergency plan to help those in need
Helston Town Council in Cornwall is 'acting on the ground' with an emergency plan, bringing together the whole community, to support people who are self-isolating.
They are one of the first councils locally to start a 'Community Emergency Plan'.
More than 50 Helston locals have already stepped forward to volunteer their services, from food delivery to picking up prescriptions.
Helston has a population of almost 12,000 people and a large proportion are elderly.
The campaign echoes the World War I style posters with the message 'Your Town Needs You'.
The nation has been advised to undertake self-isolation and social distancing measures in the face of tackling the coronavirus outbreak.
Anyone over 70, with pre-existing health conditions or who is pregnant has been advised to self-isolate for 12 weeks.
Helston Town Council's plan works towards 'easing the burden' on those either suffering from the virus or self-isolating.
Mayor of Helston, John Martin, told ITV News: "It could be shopping, sending messages to family or prescription pick-ups, or a knock on the window or a wave to check they’re OK."
He added:
Local shops, traders and fruit and veg suppliers are just a few of the businesses who are part of the community plan. They aim to 'fill the gaps' left by retail chains who are struggling to keep up with the high demand.
Deputy Mayor, Tim Grattan-Kane, says: "It is really positive people are stepping up to face this challenge."
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The council is encouraging others to follow their lead.