Despite working a 40-hour week for Wessex Water, Writhlington resident Charlotte Pearson is giving up some of her spare time to volunteer for Age UK.

Every Thursday, for the last month, the customer service deputy manager has travelled from her home to Midsomer Norton to shop for a 'lovely lady' in her nineties.

And kind-hearted Charlotte has just added another elderly couple from Paulton to her weekly shopping trip.

Charlotte told Radstock Nub News: "I found out through work that Age UK was looking for befriending and shopping volunteers.

"I got in touch with the charity and I have now been shopping for a lovely lady in Midsomer Norton for around a month.

"Recently the charity asked if I could add another couple in Paulton and I was happy to help.

"I've always been close to my family and I lost my nan last year, my dad in February and my grandfather just eight weeks ago.

"I miss having older people in my life and volunteering has helped me as much as those I am supporting.

"It feels good to know I am making a difference to the lives of vulnerable older people who don't find it easy, or want, to go out - particularly at the moment."

Charlotte, who also takes the time to have a socially-distanced chat during her weekly visits, is keen to encourage more people to become a volunteer.

"People have a lot of time on their hands currently and it can be put to good use helping people and supporting their community," she added.

Charlotte is one of dozens of Wessex Water employees who have turned to volunteering since the start of the coronavirus lockdown, either taking time out of their working schedules or utilising their own time to do something worthwhile for their local communities.