A SCHEME to keep elderly people safe during wintry weather is looking for volunteers.

Durham Constabulary and Karbon Homes are working together on the Snow Angels project, which will be operating in Chester-le-Street and Consett and the surrounding villages.

After prolonged snow which covered many parts of the country last winter, organisers are calling on people to get behind the latest campaign and volunteer to help those most at risk.

Snow Angels volunteers will support the police with clearing paths of heavy snow and ice and delivering essential provisions to those who are less mobile.

PCSO Christine Taylor, from Durham Constabulary, said: “It is especially important that we look out for the vulnerable in our communities, especially in bad weather when people become cut off from shops and other local services.

“The Snow Angels initiative aims to build upon the excellent work that was carried out during the extreme weather earlier this year and provide structured support such as snow clearance, food parcels, and extra grit bins.

“This is where true community spirit comes into play and we are proud of so many local people getting involved. Please join us.”

Batley’s Cash and Carry, on the Drum Industrial Estate, near the A693, has pledged its support to the project by offering to provide provisions for distribution in the Chester-le-Street and Pelton areas in an emergency.

The housing provider is supplying snow shovels for the project, as well as additional salt bins across the area where it operates, to prepare for adverse weather conditions.

Paul Hadden, from Karbon Homes, said: “Many of our residents are elderly and vulnerable and our aim is to ensure they stay safe should we experience heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions.

“We’re looking for people to become volunteers to help support those most vulnerable within these communities.

“Whether it is helping clear paths and driveways, or just checking in on someone to make sure they’re safe, the work of the Snow Angels is incredibly valuable.”

  • To take part in the scheme call 101 and ask for Adrian Richards in the Chester-le-Street area or Paul Mawson in the Consett area.