VOLUNTEERS are being sought to play a vital role in helping older people in Halton.

North Cheshire Hospitals NHS Trust Food and Health team has been running an innovative shopping support service since September, in part-nership with Halton Council.

The service aims to enable older people to use the super-market for their weekly shop, helping them to stay independent and eat well.

Volunteers would be involved in shopping for individuals, meeting them at the supermarket to offer support or providing an organised shopping trip with a pick-up and drop-off.

Louise Rouski, community food co-ordinator, said: 'We have been able to help more than 40 people with their shopping so far and they have really welcomed that support. We are always keen for the service to keep developing and expanding.

'Anyone who has a few hours a week to spare would help us to do that. All their expenses would be covered and they would also receive training in healthy eating practice too.

'Many older people rely on their family to help them with many parts of life, including shopping. If family or friends are not available, that is where we come in.'

Louise has also been running free Cook and Taste sessions, to offer healthy-eating recipes and tips for the elderly.

To find out more about the Shopping Support Service, including how to become a volunteer, contact Louise on 01928 759307 or 07740 041001.