A secret army of local heroes who have helped others during the pandemic is to be recognised by South Swindon MP Robert Buckland as part of Volunteers’ Week.

Dozens of people who have cooked meals, gone food shopping and created networks of support for vulnerable folk in lockdown have made a huge difference to the community over the past weeks, he said.

“We should be proud of the great work being carried out by our secret army of volunteers and this work should be highlighted and our volunteers celebrated, especially during Volunteer Week.

“Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, I have heard so many amazing stories of local residents, businesses and community groups who have been looking out for elderly people and those who are vulnerable in our community. The amount of people who have selflessly come forward to volunteer reflects the strong sense of community spirit we have here in Swindon. This truly makes me a proud MP.”

The national week is designed to thank volunteers for their work and more than 30 nominations were sent to Mr Buckland and each of them will receive a certificate.

Borough councillor Bazil Solomon put forward Jamie Tilbury for creating a Facebook page which helps support people during the coronavirus pandemic. He said: “He has been responsible together with a team to get all businesses and residents together on the Facebook site.

“The site is to help residents search for and find essential businesses quickly that are available during Covid-19 crisis. The site has over 1000 members and businesses.

“They are always positive about everyone’s effort to look after residents in line with the Government and scientific advice.”

The Swindon Volunteers Group, created at the start of the pandemic, has been nominated by five different people.

West Swindon Parish Councillor Suresh Gattapur said: “These Swindon Volunteers have cooked and served 1700 hot meals for frontline health workers, fire station staff, police, the homeless and other vulnerable people of Swindon. Their work is commendable.”

Suresh also nominated Tim Swinyard adding: “Tim was instrumental in creating a Swindon Support Facebook group where there are 3000 members. Residents of Swindon can reach out to volunteers for their shopping, medicine collection and any other help.

“This was received very well with all of the communities.”

Owner of the Suain Stores in Goddard Avenue Billy Suain has been nominated by Mary Finch and fellow residents in Goddard House.

Mary said: “Billy and his wife have provided an invaluable resource during the pandemic, keeping the shop well stocked, clean and safe.

“Billy is always willing to help and has carried shopping home for residents and delivered shopping to vulnerable tenants who are shielding.

“He has listened to suggestions for items that people would like to see stocked, like fresh fruit and vegetables, which has saved trips further afield to buy these.

“He provided a list of local volunteers who could help in other ways such as collecting prescriptions.

“Above all else, the shop is always friendly and welcoming during these difficult times.”

Jane Beaumont has nominated Chiseldon parish clerk Clair Wilkinson. “She goes above and beyond every single time anyone asks, wants or needs something - information or help with anything.

“Her network of contacts and support that she has is a true evidence of her dedication to making lives where she lives and the surrounding area better for all.

“If you follow our Facebook village page, everyone always says ‘ask Clair’ amazingly, She does all this with a family and two jobs and is still able to find room to help or support. I’m sure I’m not alone in this suggestion.”

Mr Buckland said: “We are facing significant challenges in the coming weeks with more people being asked to self-isolate because of Coronavirus.

“It is vital that we follow the advice of the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Officer but also look at what we can do to support our neighbours and the most vulnerable in our society.

He added: “My South Swindon constituency office will be focussing on supporting those constituents who require urgent assistance.”

For those looking for general NHS or Government guidance and advice on Coronavirus visit:robertbuckland.co.uk/coronavirus