Shropshire Council and the Co-op have come together to raise awareness of a free home delivery service launched across the county by the supermarket.

Co-op Midcounties, who have a supermarket in Wem, launched its free home delivery service at the start of lockdown to ensure that those unable to leave their homes, including the elderly and people with underlying health conditions, would still be able to receive essential food supplies.

The scheme has now delivered to thousands of vulnerable residents and Shropshire Council is calling on more residents to make the most of the service.

Phil Ponsonby, chief executive of Co-op Midcounties, said he was grateful to the volunteers that helped with the service.

"Supporting our communities and members is at the heart of what we do, and always will be," he said.

"We want to do all we can to protect those who are most vulnerable, which means helping them to continue to stay at home and stay safe.

"Our home delivery service has helped so many people across our communities so far and we're beyond grateful for the volunteers who continue to help us do that.

"We also know that there are many more people who could benefit from the scheme so, please, if we can help you, or anyone you know, get in touch with your local store now."

Meanwhile Councillor Dean Carroll, cabinet member with responsibilities for public health and adult social care, added: "I am delighted that Shropshire Council is working with a range of partners to ensure that people are able to source the food and supplies they need at this difficult time.

"The Co-op are offering a great service, as are other food shops, in order to support people where they live.

"Shropshire Council wants to continue this really positive way of working with our communities and our businesses going forward.

"We're really keen for people to know that they can be part of this initiative through volunteering with the Co-op.

"Also, we want to remind people to get in touch with the council if they are struggling at this time. Our dedicated COVID-19 helpline number is 0345 678 9028."

Those who could benefit from the scheme are being asked to contact their local Co-op Midcounties food store by phone, and the in-store team will arrange for shopping to be delivered straight to their door by one of its trusted volunteers.