Spalding and Long Sutton business are offering meals on wheels services for self-isolators

A number of businesses across the area are starting up 'meals on wheels' services to support elderly people during the Coronavirus outbreak.

Small Dean Trading, which runs the cafe at The Castle Sports Complex, and The Unicorn Diner, in Long Sutton, are offering to deliver hot meals to people who are self-isolating.

People who are displaying symptoms of Covid 19, which includes a high temperature and a new or continous cough, to self-isolate for seven days.

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Health secretary Matt Hancock told the BBC on Sunday that people over the age of 70 and with certain health conditions would soon be asked to self-isolate.

John Phoenix, who owns Small Dean Trading with David Blaxter, said his firm would be offering a hot meal and a packed lunch over seven-days a week between 11am and 2pm.

He said: "Most of our clientèle are over the age of 70 and if they are going to be on lock down that means they won't be able to get food or anything which is why we are offering this seven-days a week.

"We want to make sure they are looked after and keep them fed."

Mr Phoneix and his catering manager Sally Willoughby-Jardine are also implementing new rules to ensure continous high standards of food safety. They will wearing new uniforms, which must not be worn outside the kitchen, and only the two of them will be allowed in the kitchen.

Drivers delivering the meals will be given blue gloves and will leave the meals, packed in plastic boxes, on the doorstep to avoid contact with the customer.

The service, which cost £9.50 a day for two meals or £4.50 for one, will be covering the Spalding area around Moutlon, Whaplode, Pinchbeck and Weston Hills.

Bookings can be taken on 01775 248470.

Mr Phoneix said: "We have even had people from Skegness contact us to collect 40 meals and distribute over there."

The Unicorn Diner has been running a 'meals n wheels' service for pensioners between Wisbech and Moulton Seas End for the last year.

They offer a hot meal and a dessert for £5.50 and are offering this service to other age groups who are self-isolating.

Owner Faith Pearson said: "I would extend the offer so all the people who are having difficulties are assured of a hot meal."

The Crown Hotel in Holbeach has also started a community food collection for people who are in need.

The team is appealing for donations to the collection and are also taking names of people who are need help.