CUSTOMERS at a Wellington butchers are helping to buy food boxes for local families most in need.

Several people have already made 'paid forward' donations to the scheme at Tim Potter's Butchers.

Company director Mr Potter has praised generous customers and local businesses which have donated the £20 meat and veg boxes.

And volunteers The Welly Angels have stepped in to help deliver free of charge the gifted boxes in refrigerated packaging.

The recipients are nominated by local charities and community support groups working directly with vulnerable people.

Mr Potter said: "Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, we have seen an unprecedented number of customers requesting free home delivery due to being in isolation.

"We have decided to introduce this gifting scheme to help those in isolation who are struggling to make ends meet in this desperate situation.

"We have been overwhelmed with offers of support received so far and thank all of those who have donated vital supplies to those who need them most."

He is appealing to anyone who can comfortably afford it, to buy ‘Potters Pounds’ vouchers to be gifted to those most in need of the boxes.

You can contribute by calling 07585 700030.

Cllr Andrew Govier, who represents the area on Somerset County Council, said: "I am delighted to support this scheme and feel it is an excellent project.

"We know these are tough times for many families in Wellington and Rockwell Green.

"The pandemic has left many families without employment and short of money.

"This scheme will allow some of these families to receive high quality, nutritious food from a very well-respected local business.

"Local residents have already shown their willingness to support the vulnerable people town and I hope that this will be another example of the excellent community spirit that we have here."