A council has set up a special phone line so that food can reach those most in need.

The community support helpline, 01732 876152, was launched this weekend to provide supplies to those who are socially isolated or in urgent need of help.

The move, by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, comes as the first food parcels were delivered to those at highest risk of coronavirus nationwide.

The Kent council's move was announced in a statement to its local residents from leader Nicolas Heslop.

He said: " At Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council, we are determined to play our part in responding to the emergency and are devoting all our energy to maintaining essential services, supporting our communities and protecting the vulnerable."

He said that while the council has had to close many facilities it as still delivering core services such as waste collection, housing support and the payment of benefits.

Cllr Heslop thanked the community for its response to the pandemic.

He added: " It has been humbling to see how the residents of Tonbridge and Malling have responded in these most difficult of times.

"Supporting one another, watching out for neighbours and sacrificing the personal freedoms we so often take for granted are the only way we will defeat the threat posed by the coronavirus outbreak."

Cllr Heslop described the pandemic as "one of the greatest challenges of our times."

He added: "Life for millions of people has changed beyond recognition as we battle to slow the spread of coronavirus."

He said the council was keeping locals up to date on the crisis with its website and social media channels.

These have links to NHS guidance and information about how council services are being affected.

The council website also has a coronavirus update page.

Cllr Heslop concluded: "Please continue to follow the guidance issued by the government. Stay at home, stay safe and together we will overcome this challenge."

Latest information on the council's action over COVID-19 can be found on its website tmbc.gov.uk

For the latest coronavirus news and advice, click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Tonbridge