Manchester United goalkeeper and Sunderland AFC fan Paul Woolston delivers meals to people self-isolating

The Monkwearmouth attraction’s volunteers have instead ploughed their effort into keeping Wearside’s most in need going through the crisis.

They ensured youngsters who would usually get a free meal at Fulwell Junior School still got their dinner, before a voucher scheme came in to support their families, as it worked in conjunction with Sunderland City Council in the first weeks of the lockdown.

Then it stepped up to help those who are usually supported through care schemes to deliver up to 60 meals a day, with the food made by the Cherry Tree Kitchen run by The Bistro in Houghton in premises rented from Gentoo.

Museum founder Michael Ganley said the project, backed by a hardcore of around four volunteers and operating within social distancing rules, said it was not just about making sure people didn't go hungry, but forging friendships with the vulnerable and self-isolating.

In the last few days, it has also welcomed Manchester United goalkeeper and Sunderland fan Paul Woolston to its ranks, as he got involved in making the drop-offs, which have taken place across Washington, Fence Houses, Houghton and Sunderland.

Paul said: “I’m a big supporter of Sunderland and the museum and wanted to put something back into the community.”

Michael added: “Paul, for the last week, has been helping us and been getting out there, which has been great.

“For 14 weeks we have been out on the road, because when we had to shut the museum, the next day we started up the van, because I knew we had to do something.

“These people have been self-isolating in their homes and they’ve been lonely and maybe haven’t had visitors, so we have been befriending them and had a bit of fun.

“We’ve been taking out meals, but it’s also given them something different, and we are positive people wanting to help.”

He added his thanks to Vans Direct, run by Vertu, which has sponsored a van for the delivery team to use.

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