SOUTHEND Airport has collected essential items to be given to the vulnerable in the borough.

Staff at the airport have gathered essential items to donate to Age Concern Southend, who will distribute to their network of older people in our community.

Glyn Jones, CEO of the airport, said: “Our Security manager, Siobhan, came up with the great idea of gathering supplies at the airport to give to the community, especially those who are struggling to get out or to find some of the items they need.

“Most of us live locally and have experienced the empty shelves in local shops. Supermarket staff are working long hours to keep up and if we can support in any way, we will.

“We now have boxes of essentials ready to go to Age Concern Southend to support their network in the local area.”

Age Concern Southend is a small, independent charity based in Westcliff, providing support, advice and services to older people in Southend and the surrounding communities.

The announcement comes on top of the airport giving out care packages to NHS workers who have less time to shop for themselves.

They have gathered essential items to give to NHS staff at Southend and Basildon hospitals as well as the ambulance base on Aviation Way.

Glyn Jones added: “We have 75 care packages which will be delivered over the next few days to help as many NHS staff as possible.

“It is a time to pull together and support key workers on the front line of the fight against COVID-19. I am proud that the airport is able to play a small role in providing that support.”

If you or someone you know could benefit from a care package please contact Age Concern Southend directly on 01702 345373 or email enquiry@acsos.co.uk.