AS PEMBROKESHIRE families learn how to cope with lockdown, one village community has taken matters into its own hands.

The Llangwm Community Support Group was set up by a handful of residents concerned that local people should receive the support they need.

One of the first people to get involved was Dave Golding of Cleddau Village Stores and Post Office who responded to an appeal to collate the names of people needing help – and those who were volunteering to help them.

“The group was the bright idea of Liz Rawlings, a member of the local community council, with the backing of council leader Michael John,” Dave said.

“I had a phone call from her on the Wednesday evening and it went from there.”

From that start Liz now has a database of volunteers who are prepared to help.

“I knew Dave in the shop would be key to the whole thing so we met on the Thursday and in just over an hour we developed our strategy,” said Liz.

“Another village resident Stuart Beresford was asked to design and print 450 leaflets and 30 cards for volunteers which he did on Friday.

“Stuart’s wife Liz Beresford organised delivery throughout the village which was completed on Saturday.

“So it was all pretty cool.

“At the moment everyone in the village is okay but people have told Dave they will probably need help as the emergency goes on.”

Dave was already delivering newspapers free of charge to residents and to that he has added groceries not only from the shop but from local supermarkets and he is also collecting prescriptions from local pharmacies for people who are heeding the government’s call to stay at home.

“I’m doing it because I love Llangwm, I really do,” said Dave who has been running the shop and post office for two years.

“I also have a background in social work, with pupil support so I understand the need to support people in the community.

“Strangely enough most calls have been from people outside the main part of the village who are having problems getting in.”

Those in need of help are asked by the support team to either take their details to Dave or email him on davidsavid17@gmail.com.

They can also telephone other support group members Matthew Evans on 07805 168632, Llinos Martin (01437890678) or Liz Rawlings (01437 891706).