BASILDON United are offering assistance to those needing help during the coronavirus epidemic.

The Isthmian North club have set up an emergency phone line, with members of the committee, management staff and players happy to collect shopping, prescriptions and essentials.

And vice-chairman Lee Connor admits the Bees are keen to play an integral part in helping the local community, particularly those most vulnerable.

“As has been previously reported, it is the aim of the committee of Basildon United Football Club to ensure that the club plays an integral role in the local community and provides a facility that the town can be proud of,” said Connor.

“Usually, this might be interpreted as being viewed through a footballing perspective, but in these most difficult and unprecedented times it is likely to be the most vulnerable members of our communities that will need the most assistance in the coming weeks and months.

“It is for this reason that the club has set up a dedicated telephone line to offer support to those who may need help with the collection of shopping or prescriptions or any other essentials that may be required during an extended period of self-isolation.

“Members of the club committee, first team management and first team squad will be running the service and all enquiries should be made on 07732 448500.”

The club have also set up a Facebook page, which can be found at Basildon United FC Community During Covid-19.

A club statement read: “Basildon United Football Club have started this page to offer a bit of support if you have any relatives, especially elderly, that you are worried about.”

Opening times for the service are 9am-5pm from Monday to Saturday, while enquiries can also be made between 10am and 4pm on Sunday.