A TEAM of bighearted volunteers lending a hand to vulnerable residents during the coronavirus lockdown have received some Royal praise.

Over the last two months The Greenmount Helpers have been providing an invaluable service to people around the borough who are self-isolating or cannot leave the house due to Covid-19.

Now their efforts have been honoured with a letter of thanks from The Queen's representative in the region ­— the Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Sir Warren J Smith.

In his letter to the group's chairman, Julie Southworth, Sir Warren commended her and the team for "offering a myriad of services to help those in need".

These, he said, have "made a tremendous difference to the recovery in Greater Manchester".

His letter continued: "The moments when the United Kingdom came together to applaud its care and essential workers will be remembered as an expression of our national spirit but your contribution will not be forgotten either.

"On behalf of Her Majesty The Queen thank you for everything you have done."

The Greenmount Helpers team provides a range of helpful services, including: collecting online shopping orders, emergency supplies and prescriptions; posting and collecting mail, and making friendly phone calls.

It is open to anyone who may not have someone else to help them.

To get in touch, or if you have concerns about an elderly neighbour or relative, call or text 07958 173940 between 9am and 3pm.

You can also visit the group's Facebook page @GreenmountVillage, or Twitter page @GreenmountVill.