A SIMPLE post on a Facebook selling group has spawned an scheme that will help keep people fed during the coronavirus crisis.

Mum of two Victoria Hope used the social media platform to advertise free bags of food for people who were unable to get to the supermarket or afford to eat.

She puts a variety of long-life foods from her kitchen in the bags and leaves them outside her front door in Old Town for people to come and pick up while still following the government's social distancing advice.

Victoria, 41 told the Adver: “I said there will always be a bag of food available to help the local community and it just grew arms and legs.

“Hundreds of people were reacting and commenting. Some were saying how nice it was and some were asking how they could get involved as well.”

So far Victoria has done two bags for people who have contacted her on Facebook and said that more people want to do the same.

She added: “It’s a tough situation that we’re all in at the moment and these people were probably struggling before coronavirus.

“If you’re in a position to help them then you should, it’s pretty simple.”

When Victoria came up with the idea she tried to find out whether any organisations were already doing something similar, but couldn’t.

“It’s the sort of thing that is easy and sensible to do,” she told the Adver.

“If people wanted it, those that need it or don’t have the money can just come and pick it up.

“It’s making a difference in a simple way. If people can do it, it will make a big difference to those who need it.

“The food supply is not what it was with people panic buying. If people can provide their food then it will still be available.”

In her packages so far, Victoria has included items such as tuna, beans, potatoes and pasta.

She added: “You can choose to put fresh goods in there too if you know they’re coming straight away.

“You can just keep it basic. Make it dinner meals for four, children and families.”

Despite her generosity, Victoria does have some concerns that people might abuse the scheme.

She said: “Absolutely people could take advantage but that doesn’t matter.

“The help far outweighs the negatives.”

Victoria is taking requests via her Facebook posts and account – Missy Hope – which means she can see who she is giving the food to and is in constant communication with them.

Victoria said: “If they don’t show up or stop replying to you then you can tell them that you will be giving the food to the next person who has asked.

"That helps with not making it open to abuse.”