ORGANISERS of the much praised Devizes COVID 19 Support Group have called an end an end to its work after 19 weeks of action.

The group based at Devizes Town Hall and run by the town council and Devizes Churches Together has taken 5,639 calls, delivered more than 3,000 prescriptions and made 2,000 shopping trips in its 19 weeks of existence.

The Rev Keith Brindle from St James’ Church, Devizes, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to say a massive thank you to all of the hard-working and dedicated people of our town who have supported one another during this pandemic, whether through the DC19S initiative or by looking out for neighbours.

“Thanks to those who stood in queues, shopped, picked up prescriptions, ran errands and made supportive phone calls. Thanks to the local supermarkets & pharmacies who’ve been generous, supportive and adaptable.

“Thanks to the local businesses and individuals who have given generously to help support the town, especially Wiltshire Community Foundation for their grant and a significant donation from Ball Aerocan.”

He also thanked the town council staff, Wiltshire Council and the people of Devizes for their support.

Donna Giddings, who was helped by DC19S said: “They were a brilliant resource to me and my family during the last 4 months.

I was working 50 hours a week for the NHS in the first six weeks of the pandemic. I had a mother-in-law and husband both shielding at home with me in Bromham and then my dad and his wife shielding in Devizes. He had been in hospital with pneumonia the previous November and already danced with death, so I needed to do everything in my power to ensure they stayed safe. I spent my limited days off shopping and running errands for everyone.

“I spent hours queuing for medication for everyone at the different chemists, then a nurse friend told me about DC19S. What heroes!”

Wiltshire councillor Laura Mayes, who was a co-ordinator, said: “Devizes’ response to Covid19 was little short of miraculous and helped keep the people of Devizes safe and at home during the pandemic.”