A PAPER girl has given out her number alongside deliveries, in a note to a town's residents that offers support to the vulnerable and isolated during the coronavirus pandemic.

Abigail Colquhoun delivers papers around Darlington and attached a post-it note to each front page, which included her name and contact details, offering help with shop runs and dog walks.

The 17-year-old decided to offer help after a woman, who runs lunch time classes at Queen Elizabeth College where students debate issues around the world, said her son did it for his paper round.

Miss Colquhoun said: "I decided to do it too. I felt bad I was going to these people’s houses when I don't know their conditions and I may spread the virus to them."

People have since gotten in touch to say thank you, though many have friends and family that are still able to go out and run errands.

"One elderly couple did ask me to get their prescription. If I hadn’t have helped, they told me that they would have risked going out to get it themselves," she said.

"But if they have caught the virus, who knows what could have happened. I almost feel like I’ve helped to save a life.

"Someone else said she is fine for now, but that it's good to know that help is out there."

The teen said that while some young people are "selfish and only care about themselves", many are also offering support by babysitting and running errands for neighbours.

"I think this is going to bring people together and show a different side to people, especially with young people," Miss Colquhoun added, urging residents to ask for help and for others to offer it.

"This has shown that we, young people, can be helpful too. People will see others in a more positive light, one that isn’t seen until crisis occurs.

"People should not put themselves at risk, and others should offer help. If you can go outside and have free time, or haven’t been on your walk for the day, just give someone a knock and see if you can help.

"And don’t be afraid to ask for help."

"Proud" mum Lois Colquhoun, jokingly, said: "Se has a kind heart, and she does like to help people out. Just wish she was more helpful around the house."