SOUTH AYRSHIRE volunteers have praised the work of a new service launched to help older people live healthier, more independent lives by delivering essential groceries to their door.

Food Train operates a well-established shopping operation across Scotland to support the elderly. People from across South Ayrshire are now taking part in the charity’s new Food Train Connects service which delivers groceries to over 65s, many of them disabled or suffering from ill health.

But volunteers now say that the need is growing critical in South Ayrshire, with the service met with unprecedented demand due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Volunteer Robert Newsham, 57, from Barr, said: “Although I’m now retired, I spent my entire career in the caring profession. After hearing of the demands due to the coronavirus pandemic, I thought it would be a good idea to get involved and help provide a service to my community.

“I feel the service beyond the pandemic will grow due to not only providing food, but the contact for many older people who live alone.

“For many, their Food Train Connects volunteer may be the only social interaction they have, particularly in more isolated areas. The customers we have already are very pleased with the service provided.

“They really do rely on their nominated volunteer to carry out their shopping trips

“As a volunteer, you get great satisfaction out of knowing that you have made a difference.”

The charity is currently supporting 3,100 people with grocery deliveries across Scotland - up from to 1,905 prior to the pandemic.

Morna O’May, Food Train Connects National Development Officer, said: “We have had a really positive response from volunteers and customers in South Ayrshire, which we see as one of the key areas for the Connects service.

“We are already starting to see the difference that the service can make. The impact Food Train can have on peoples’ lives is great.”

For more information email shopping@thefoodtrain.co.uk or call 0800 3047924