Merton Council’s Transport Services team helped elderly and disabled residents with their Christmas shopping by providing free transport to and from the Centre Court Shopping Centre in Wimbledon.

Taking place on Sunday 25 November, the annual shopping trip was organised by Merton Council who joined forces with the Volunteer Centre Merton to provide a team of enthusiastic volunteers from Ricards Lodge High School and Ursuline High School to help residents carry their shopping, push wheelchairs and provide companionship during the shopping trip. As part of the annual festive trip, residents who attended the event had the opportunity to enjoy carol singing performed by the choir from the Joseph Hood Primary School as well as having a cup of tea or coffee provided by the Centre Court Shopping Centre during the trip.

Mayor of Merton, Councillor David Williams said: ‘This year’s shopping trip was a great success and I was delighted to be part of it. Everyone was in great spirit, there were lots of Christmas presents bought and carols sung, it was a truly happy occasion.’

Cabinet member for adult social care and health, Councillor Linda Kirby, said: ‘It is important that all residents, at their own ease, can do some shopping and enjoy the special atmosphere of the area in the run up to Christmas. Living in a supportive community is always important, but even more so at Christmas time and I’m glad to see people volunteering their time to help out on these shopping trips, which have proven to be great fun for everyone involved over the years.’

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