Red House Farm have been using the enforced rest from football to help families who are struggling financially during the coronavirus crisis.

The club’s Chris Mann works for youth mentoring service Edge North East and the organisations joined forces to help out local families in need.

They’ve delivered food and other essentials to more than 160 households during lockdown, with help and donations from the Bellinger Trust, Samantha’s Legacy and the council’s Fawdon Ward team.

Chris said: “The club house was standing empty so we wanted to do something to help people. We’ve had loads of offers of help from volunteers which has been great.

“Lots of people are really struggling – some families are finding it hard to feed their kids, especially as they are usually at school and are now at home all the time. It’s been great to be able to help so many people.”

 Meanwhile coaches & members from both Forest Hall Juniors & Seniors FC and Forest Hall Boxing Club have also been doing their bit to support the community.

Thanks to their donations, more than 120 hampers have been delivered to elderly residents in Forest Hall and Palmersville.

The club was delighted to deliver its 100th hamper to Elsie, a resident at Feetham Court.

There's a collection bin outside the gates of East Palmersville Sports Pavilion on weekdays from  9am to 4pm for anyone who wants to donate.