More than 800 people respond to Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway's coronavirus volunteer appeal

More than 800 people have responded to an urgent appeal for volunteers during the coronavirus crisis.

Staff at Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway are currently working through the list to see where the helpers are needed, with the largest group being used by the council to deliver food to the region’s most vulnerable.

Chief executive officer, Norma Austin Hart, said: “The amazing offers of help demonstrate the community spirit across our fantastic region. It is a huge task to process all the applications to ensure Government guidelines are met and volunteers are placed in the correct role to have the most impact, but our dedicated team is working hard to do so.

“We have nearly contacted all those who have offered to drive and deliver food, as the vulnerable are the priority, so I would ask everyone to be patient and we will get to you as soon as possible - looking out for and correctly coordinating the volunteers is very important.”

Anyone still looking to volunteer is asked to hold off until Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway launches a fresh appeal.