A WOMAN who spear-headed a community group has been praised for helping others during the coronavirus pandemic.

Caroline Smith was 'instrumental' in setting up the Ulverston Self Isolation Group which has helped thousands of vulnerable residents on lockdown.

Mrs Smith has been nominated to appear in the Westmorland Gazette's roll call of key workers going above and beyond.

A special supplement will be printed in the Gazette next week to pay tribute to local key workers.

She was nominated by Hannah Paling who said: "Since self-isolation became a reality for the Ulverston area, Caroline has been at the forefront of not only keeping the most vulnerable members of the community safe, but also to encourage all to adhere to social distancing advice whilst maintaining a positive and practical approach.

"She was instrumental in setting up the Ulverston Self-Isolation Facebook group which now has 3,800 members, as well as leading the behind the scenes steering group that she works with to ensure no one is left behind.

"The group provide meals, shopping, prescription collections and a friendly chat to those affected by self-isolation and the coronavirus outbreak.

"The level of support being given shows how needed this group was, and Caroline has played her role, leading from the front voluntarily with her usual self-effacing humour and kindness.

"I think she is well deserving of this nomination although she will no doubt disagree."

There is still time to submit your nominations for our special 40-page supplement.

Email the person's name, their age, where they work/live, and a picture to tommy.greene@newsquest.co.uk to pay tribute to them.

We’ve received a lot of nominations so don’t worry if you don’t get a reply.