A SCHEME to help Chester-le-Street’s elderly and vulnerable stay safe this winter is appealing for volunteers.

The Snow Angels scheme was launched in 2011 by Durham Constabulary and Cestria Community Housing, the area‘s biggest social landlord.

During heavy snowfall staff from both organisations, boosted by volunteers, clear paths and deliver essential provisions.

Cestria is supplying extra salt bins in the town and surrounding villages in preparation for this year’s project.

The association’s Customer Relationship Manager, Lisa Coverdale said: “Many of our tenants are elderly and vulnerable and our aim is to ensure they stay safe should we experience heavy snowfall, as we have in recent years.

“We also know that our tenants, along with members of the local community, are very community spirited and are always willing to help their neighbours where they can.”

All volunteers need is warm clothing and a shovel. In the event of heavy snowfall, volunteers will be contacted and asked to help clear paths in their area.

They may also be asked to deliver groceries to vulnerable households.

Batley’s cash and carry, on the Drum Industrial Estate, is supporting the project by offering to provide provisions for distribution in the Chester-le-Street and Pelton areas in an emergency.

Inspector Amanda Catherine, of the Chester-le-Street Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We will do our best to help as many people as possible based on individual needs, the amount of requests and number of available volunteers.

“By becoming a Snow Angel volunteer you will know you are making a real difference to someone’s life at a difficult time.”

To volunteer, call Chester-le-Street Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101 or e-mail adrian.richards@durham.pnn.police.uk or christine.taylor@durham.pnn.police.uk