COMMUNITY wardens are setting up a scheme to distribute hampers to pensioners.

They are working with charity Help the Aged to give away the hampers in September to pensioners across Stockton.

And they are contacting shops and businesses for donations of non-perishable goods for the hampers.

Wardens will be giving away free prize draw tickets to over-60s residents during August and will visit sheltered housing and bingo halls to distribute the free tickets.

Community warden James Box will also be taking part in the Great North Run as part of Stockton's campaign to help senior citizens

The draw for the hampers will be made in September at a venue to be decided.

Graeme Small, Stockton Borough Council's enforcement and community wardens co-ordinator, said: "Our wardens work in the heart of communities. They are very keen to maintain their profile.

"They will be collecting as much food as possible for the hampers and would urge shops and businesses to give generously.

Shop owners who would like to donate contents for the hampers are asked to call (01642) 528439.