Nowadays, busyness is the order of the day. Many people, isolated by age, retirement, ill-health, disability, may feel left behind; this can be dispelled by a few minutes of chat whilst delivering the meals. The same visit can give a feeling of security to those who, whilst enjoying being independent, may for some reason need the reassurance of a regular visit.

During this coronavirus pandemic there is a population of people with special needs who would normally avail of support services provided by the state, but which is no longer available. These are at least provided with a nourishing meal and a regular visit by a friendly face: perhaps not the companionship of a day centre, but at least a relief from a “lock-down”.

All of this can be read on the faces of all of the variety of clients we visit. The payback is terrific. I could never have foreseen the level of satisfaction, and pleasure to be gained from a couple of hours driving, whether around our lovely town or through the beautiful surrounding countryside. The ‘friends’ I meet regularly are a real source of joy.