The work of the SuperNeigbours is done.

The scheme, where volunteers run errands for and befriend those isolated at home in Dover district during the pandemic, is being wound up.

This is because of the successful rollout of the vaccination programme, the gradual unlocking of the country and the end of shielding.

The voluntary service, supported by the Mercury, was set up in March 2020 when coronavirus first erupted in the UK.

Those who helped provided support to residents unable to leave their homes with their shopping needs, prescription collections and also offered friendly chats.

Now project leader Beverley-Jane Last has written to volunteers to tell them that the programme has, for now, done its job.

She. with her husband Paul, will remain on standby to take calls but they believe that for most, the end of shielding should mark a return to self-sufficiency once again.

,Dover and Deal MP Natalie Elphicke and Dover District Council leader, Cllr Trevor Bartlett, had set up the SuperNeighbours.

A call for volunteers saw almost 50 sign up in the first few days.

Mrs Elphicke said: “When I look back to last year, I was so touched that so many people came forward to help look after each other in our community when we set up SuperNeighbours .

"Time and again everyone stepped forward and stepped up. There are so many favourite stories over the last year – from pharmacy trips to photography hobbies, from listening on the phone to bringing food and friendship on the doorstep.

“The time has come for the country to take a step forward, and for SuperNeighbours to take a step back.

"Beverley-Jayne, ably supported by Paul, has done an amazing job and we’ve had so much positive feedback from all the people who have been helped.

“To Beverley-Jayne, Paul and all our SuperNeighbours, a huge and heartfelt thanks.”

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