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The Poolie Time Exchange, which operates out of Burbank Community Centre, is looking for people to take food and medicine to the front doors of the over 70s who are expected to be asked to stay at home for long periods in the coming weeks.

It is part of the Government’s efforts to contain the spread of the disease among the most at risk age group.

More than 70 potential volunteers have signed up this weekend alone.

Poolie Time Exchange members from left: Stephen Picton, Councillor Amy Prince, Ian Cawley and Councillor Dave Hunter who are calling for volunteers to deliver food and medicine to elderly and vulnerable people who have to self-isolate due to coronavirus.

Ian Cawley, manager of the Burbank Community Centre and one of the project leads, said: “We put a call out two days ago and the response has just been unbelievable.

“Anyone who is vulnerable or elderly will be able to access this service. We just want to be ready as a town so want to try to put something in place to support people in their homes who can’t get out.

“We are making preparations for hundreds or thousands of people which is why we want so many volunteers.”

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The coronavirus appeal is also being led by councillors Dave Hunter and Amy Prince and taxi driver Stephen Picton.

They stress they will follow the latest public health advice to protect volunteers and they will not have direct contact with the isolated people.

Deliveries will be left on the door step before stepping back and watching to make sure the package is picked up.

As well as volunteers, the project is also appealing for donations of non-perishable foods, soap and toilet roll, money and support from other councillors and local business.

A GoFundMe page has been set up entitled Isolation Help.

Supporters can also donate via PayPal at www.poolietimeexchange.co.uk or drop donations off at Burbank Community Centre.

Stephen added: “We are in uncharted waters here, Hartlepool can and will pull together to help our needy.

“Let’s show the UK how we as town survive when needed.”

To volunteer visit The Poolie Time Exchange website or Facebook page.

Coronavirus: Volunteers needed to help Hartlepool's elderly and vulnerable during long self-isolation