A TEAM of volunteers in Swindon will deliver Christmas hampers to nearly 100 elderly people living independently across town.

This week volunteers from Royal Voluntary Service will be packing hampers of seasonal eats and treats to hand-deliver.

The good cause is in its third year thanks to support from the Asda Foundation, which has been investing in local communities since 1988 to improve the lives of the people who live and work there.

Annmarie Rocks, senior co-ordinator at the foundation, said: “This year the Asda Foundation celebrates 30 years of supporting charities and good causes to transform their communities and improve the lives of local people.

“We’re proud to be supporting Royal Voluntary Service with its Christmas hamper deliveries again this year. As well as providing a little Christmas cheer, it’s the time volunteers take to chat with clients that really makes the difference.”

Derek Bonner, 92, says it is something he has looked forward to over the last few years.

He said: “It means so much to people like me who have no family, to have the support and company when we need it most, particularly at this time of year.

“The hamper was a great surprise and a real bonus with lots of special treats, it has really brightened my day.”

The voluntary service is one of Britain’s largest volunteering charities with over 20,000 volunteers supporting thousands of people each month in hospitals, at home and in the community.

The simple acts of kindness that volunteers provide have helped make communities stronger and relieve the pressure on overstretched public services.

The charity is also one of the largest retailers in the NHS, with its network of cafes, shops and trolleys providing a valued haven in hospitals.

Andy Bloor, commissioned services operations manager of the Swindon service, said: “Loneliness can be a real problem for those without family or friends nearby, particularly older people, at Christmas.

“In recent years, generous funding from the Asda Foundation has meant that our volunteers have been able to deliver over 8,000 hampers to older people in need in local communities.

“These hampers are so much more than just a basket of treats – delivering them by hand provides an opportunity for our volunteers to stop, have a chat and check on clients, reminding them that there is someone looking out for them during the Christmas period.”