POLICE, health and council bosses have joined forces to pay collective tribute and thanks to all the volunteers who have given their time and expertise for free during the coronavirus pandemic.

Volunteers have provided vital support to vulnerable residents with actions including delivering shopping and food parcels, collecting medication, co-ordinating hot meals and foodbanks, managing money, patient transport and doorstep chats to help with loneliness.

Chief Constable of Dorset Police, James Vaughan, said: "I have been amazed at the level of commitment, dedication and selflessness shown by all the volunteers who have played such a huge part in the Dorset Covid-19 response.

"From co-ordinating the delivery of food parcels and medicine to supporting care homes, these men and woman have stepped up and offered their time to help our communities through a very tough and difficult year.

"I would like to thank them all on behalf of the residents of Dorset - our partnership response to this pandemic would not have been as successful without them."

Chief nursing officer at Dorset County Hospital Nicky Lucey said: "Our volunteers have been absolutely amazing. They have been key in supporting the Covid vaccination programme rollout and have brought with them an energy that has been inspiring and uplifting for our staff.

"They have also continued to volunteer across the hospital during the ongoing pandemic, bringing their passion for the community to the forefront.

"I am humbled and grateful for their support and thank them immensely on behalf of everyone at Dorset County Hospital."

Councillor Laura Miller, Dorset Council portfolio holder for adult social care and health, said: "I want to say a heartfelt thank you to all of our amazing volunteers for all that you have done and all that you continue to do to help our communities.

"The strength and resilience that you have shown has been outstanding. We could not have achieved all that we have had it not been for you.

"I would encourage anyone who would like to volunteer to sign up. Although the Prime Minister has set out the roadmap for ending lockdown restrictions, many people may still be nervous about going out but we are all in this together and we will get through this by supporting each other."