CAMPAIGNERS in Bury are pulling out all the stops to ensure older people across the borough do not feel lonely during the coronavirus outbreak.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has advised that people aged over 70 will need to self-isolate for the next three to four months.

And Age UK in Bury took the difficult decision on Tuesday afternoon to suspend services at the Jubilee Centre, in Clarence Park, in light of the virus outbreak, until further notice.

Their friendship groups for Prestwich, Whitefield, Radcliffe and residents, and Ramsbottom and Bury North have also been suspended but charity officials are in close contact with all members.

Supporters of the organisation are determined to ensure that older people are not left alone over the next 12 weeks or so.

Bury Times readers can play a part and help raise the spirits of the borough's older generation.

A new Friends of Age UK Bury group has been set up on Facebook where people can post news, positive comments and pictures of pets and people across the area are being urged to join.

Chief officer Andy Hazeldine said: "The big issue people keep calling us about is shopping and how people get food in.

"The government says that food can still be ordered online and delivered but a lot of people we do not have access to the internet."

Charity officials have confirmed their advice line will remain operational.

The line - on 0161 7639030 - will be running from 10am until 3pm for help and advice.

The charity's national line is on 0800 678 1602 and this is open from 8am to 7pm, every day of the year.

Mr Hazeldine added: "Our priority as a Bury charity is to support older people living in the borough.

"We are offering to work with Bury’s health and social care sector to adapt our services so we can continue to support older people."

An appeal for extra pairs of hands to support their work has also been made.

The spokesman said: "If you are under 70, and in good health, we need volunteers to help us to support others.

"Please e-mail admin@ageukbury.org.uk or call us on 0161 763 9030."

As with all new cases, the charity is advising members to call 111 if they suspect they have the virus.