A Leeds landlady who has been working to lift community spirit during lockdown has starred on Ross Kemp’s new show Britain's Volunteer Army.
Jo Heywood, who runs the Gaping Goose in Garforth, and her husband Mark, have been hosting weekly bingo sessions for their neighbours in their cul-de-sac in Kippax.
And their efforts haven't gone unnoticed! Britain's Volunteer Army celebrates the efforts of the thousands of heroes making an extraordinary difference by helping the vulnerable and the NHS.
On the BBC program, Jo said: “We decided within the cul-de-sac on the rise that we want to get the neighbours talking together, getting them out of the house just for a couple hours a day so on Wednesdays we’re going to do a bingo session.
“They have prizes (which they can win), we have four games in total, we have to shout, we do it all safe social distancing.
“But its been really, really good so far.”
Before each game, the couple hand-deliver their neighbours bingo cards and dab pens.
The games take place with social distancing in place as the players sit in their driveway and have a chance to win lockdown-themed gifts including hand sanitizer, toilet roll, kitchen roll and more.
The gatherings have made a difference for the community especially for some neighbours who have not been able to see their families because they are having to self-isolate.
Jo added: "It's made us realise what goes on behind closed doors you don't realise until a pandemic like this brings everyone out. It gets people talking which means they are asking for help which is a good thing."
To watch the episode, click here .
