IN the past year, Swindon has seen a huge number of people volunteering to help the community in what has been a very challenging year for many.

Satpal, known as Paul, from Bansal Motors delivered over 5,000 homemade meals to key workers and the vulnerable, last June.

They supported hospitals, firefighters and the police with their community service as part of the Baba Balak Nath group.

Reflecting on the past year councillor David Renard, leader of Swindon Borough Council, praised the town’s combined efforts to help those in need.

He said: “Since the first case of Covid was reported in Swindon a year ago, the kindness and compassion shown by our community has been outstanding.

“I am also extremely grateful to the hundreds of people who volunteered their time to help us support our most vulnerable residents, including those who helped us deliver over 1,400 food boxes and over 3,300 prescriptions, helped make over 8,000 welfare calls to vulnerable residents and those who volunteered at Steam as car park marshals and patient co-ordinators.

“If we all follow the guidance, we can stick to the Government roadmap and see a safer, brighter future sooner.”

In the first lockdown, Stratton Juniors FC chairman Magnus Painter launched a scheme to cook and deliver meals to vulnerable adults who were isolating. The team of 40 volunteers helped around 150 people receive a hot meal twice a week.

Another volunteer, councillor for Lydiard and Freshbrook and parish councillor for Grange Park Tim Swinyard, launched the Swindon Support group to help isolated and vulnerable people.

Conservative MP for North Swindon Justin Tomlinson added: “I've been overwhelmed by the selflessness and kindness of many Swindon residents who have gone above and beyond to help others.”