Marnhull Village Care said thank you to all the volunteers who helped villagers who had and still are having problems as a result of the pandemic.

Some 70 volunteers turned out, including from the two stores, surgery, pharmacy, garage and all three churches. Marnhull Village Care was founded in 1974 to welcome newcomers moving into the village and to provide help and support where possible to anyone of any age who may be in need.

They are there for those alone or just needing a chat, they visit people who are alone in hospital and provide transport for appointments.

Ian Gall, co-founder of Marnhull Village Helpline, said: “As soon as lockdown was announced, a few of us had a conversation about how we could offer support and help the village in the days ahead, given that so many would be shielding. Within a week we had set up policies and procedures, recruited volunteers, sourced a dedicated phone number with co-ordinators to man the phones from 8am to 8pm seven days a week and the Marnhull Village Helpline was born.”

“On the March 24 2020, the day after lockdown started, we received our first call. 160 days later, on August 31, the line closed. In that time, more than 150 villagers and family members through them, were helped directly by 70 volunteers. Connections with the local GP Practice, our pharmacy, the two shops and pubs, Social Services and Nordcat provided a joined-up service of help and support.”

He added: “We found that the number of calls slowly decreased as lockdown continued, because relationships were being formed and the help continued, without ringing the helpline. If nothing else, the Marnhull Village Helpline has reawakened a sense of kindness and community and mutual help in this brilliant village.”

Trevor Vaughan MBE, chairman of Marnhull Village Care, said: “The committee of Marnhull Village care and parish council join me in thanking you all for your commitment to the village and its people through a difficult time.”

Support Us

Thank you all so, so much for the love and appreciation you’ve shown us since we launched the New Blackmore Vale.

Please show your support and add a review on our Facebook page or on Google.