A NEW community-led coronavirus helpline has been launched in Farnham and surrounding villages, for those in need of support and those willing to offer a #HelpingHand.

The Farnham and Villages Coronavirus Helpline - its number is 01252 745446 - went live on Thursday and seeks to bring together and co-ordinate the area’s relief efforts.

Based out of the Farnham Maltings, lines will be open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm, for anybody needing help during the emergency, and who has no access to family, friends or neighbours.

There is a recorded message for assistance outside of these hours - and emails requesting assistance can be sent to [email protected] while potential volunteers are asked to email [email protected] and organisers of existing groups: [email protected]

Once a request for help has been registered, operators will go to work pairing the caller with volunteers and support groups in their neighbourhood.

The fully GDPR and DBS-compliant helpline is being led by Farnham Maltings and Farnham Town Council, supported by the Herald, but brings together a wide cross-section of the community - including many existing groups.