A RECRUITMENT drive has been launched to sign up voluntary “Snow Angels” to help vulnerable residents through the winter.

Organisers of the annual campaign are seeking volunteers to join in clearing paths and delivering essential supplies to keep older and vulnerable people in Chester-le-Street safe during heavy snowfall.

First launched in 2011 by Durham Constabulary and North-East housing provider, Cestria Community Housing, this year Durham County Council will also be supporting the initiative.

Lisa Coverdale, customer relationship manager at Cestria Community Housing, said: “The Snow Angels project continues to be a success each year with more and more volunteers coming forward to help their neighbours where they can.

“Although we only responded to a small number of residents requiring assistance last year due to the mild weather conditions, it is important that we have a system in place to react should we experience extreme weather conditions”.

The scheme was originally set up back in 2011, prompted by the record low temperatures which made it the UK's coldest December since Met Office records began in 1910.

Since the 2011 freeze, Snow Angel volunteers and staff have made it their mission to ensure that people of Chester-le-Street will not be left helpless should the weather take a turn for the worse again.

In the event of heavy snowfalls, volunteers will be contacted and asked to help clear paths in designated areas identified as a high priority.

Their help includes many tasks such as delivering groceries and food parcels to vulnerable households, with Batley’s cash and carry also pledging its support for the project by offering to provide provisions for distribution in the Chester-le-Street and the surrounding area in case of an emergency.

Salt bins with distinctive Snow Angel stickers have also been supplied by Cestria Community Housing across Chester-le-Street and surrounding villages.

Ms Coverdale added: “Becoming a Snow Angel is easy, all volunteers need is warm clothing and a shovel.

“The project is a good example of organisations working together in partnership with members of the community to help our older and most vulnerable residents to stay safe this winter.”

Adrian Richards, Police and Community Support Officer, also added: “We hope all our community stay safe this winter and if anybody needs our help, please contact the Police on 101 and ask for assistance from the Chester-le-Street NPT.

“Our volunteers will help with clearing pathways in extreme prolonged weather or even have an emergency food parcel brought to your address by the police if you can’t get out to the shops.”