AS the district has now moved into Tier 2 'High' level pandemic restrictions, Maldon's volunteer service is reminding residents that help is at hand if they need it.

With Essex moving into the new level of Covid alert on Saturday (17 October), the advice to people who previously shielded is to limit contact with others as much as possible.

The team behind Maldon district's coronavirus response want to reassure residents that if they have concerns about going out to get food or medicines, the helpline that operated over the summer months is still open and taking calls.

Sarah Troop, director of Maldon and District CVS (Community Volunteer Service), said: "These are worrying times and although shielding as we previously knew it has not been reinstated, some people may be worried about going out.

"We want to encourage people to let us know if they are worried and reassure them that the support that was available over the summer is still available if they need it."

The helpline number is 01621 851997 and is currently being answered between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.