Amazing response from our county rescue volunteers
4x4 rescue drivers have covered 5,000 miles during 1,000 deliveries
A TEAM of volunteers who normally rescue drivers on flooded roads are delivering medicines and PPE equipment during the coronavirus crisis.
The Leicestershire and Rutland 4X4 Response team has so far covered more than 5,000 miles and made more than 1,000 deliveries of medication, prescriptions, gowns, masks and gloves across the county.
Chairman Simon Dale, who started the group in 2010, said he was delighted that the group had been able to help out in the crisis.
“Since the start of the global pandemic, the group has found that it has had to change and adapt its way of working to best utilise their responders to help as much as they can during this time of need,” he said.
“Since late February the group has been delivering medication to those most vulnerable, who are having to stay in and are not able to go out by collecting and delivering medication to them from their local pharmacists.
“The group has also begun collecting and delivering vital PPE for local and national health care companies, including the NHS.
“We are doing what we do best, supporting our communities. Normally our help is in response to bad weather conditions but in the strange situation we now find ourselves in, we’ve found a new way in which we can help people.
“Since March 27, we’ve completed more than 700 pharmacy deliveries and we’re continuing to deliver up to 90 parcels each day.”
The group has delivered more than 150 respirators, gloves, face masks and hand gel and more than 1,000 packages of medication.
Chief Inspector Paul Allen, from Leicestershire Police’s local policing directorate, said: “The Leicestershire and Rutland 4x4 Response group has been really innovative in adapting the way in which to help communities.
“I’m proud that our police support volunteers are able to be a part of that and can really make a difference during this challenging time. Well done all.”
The group continue to deliver PPE it works (personal protective equipment) and medication while continuing to offer their normal services.
Team members include teachers, lorry drivers, mechanics, police officers, and military personnel.
Leicestershire and Rutland Response is a registered charity. 4×4