The boating community at Brandon Bank has always been a close one but the Covid 19 pandemic has definitely brought people even closer together.
Clare and Martin Madelin have been part of the boating community for the past 6 years and when the lockdown started causing difficulties, they had the brilliant idea of creating a WhatsApp Group for local residents. Initially the group was set up to help each other with shopping as people were struggling to purchase essential items resulting in repeated trips to the shops, exacerbated by the fact that many boaters don’t own freezers and have very limited storage space.
The WhatsApp Group became a really useful way of sharing details of the products people were struggling to buy so that anyone venturing out to the supermarket could pick up items for others, whenever available, subsequently reducing the overall number of shopping trips and keeping people safer.
But as people found it harder and harder to buy what they needed residents started exchanging and gifting items to each other, leaving parcels on decks and doorsteps, with boaters and house dwellers looking out for each other. People were even leaving wonderful presents of flowers and plants!
Clare says ‘We were completely bowled over by people’s kindness at this difficult time. It’s amazing how a gift of a loo roll can warm your heart!’ Clare and Martin have seen unbelievable acts of generosity and support for everyone who has wanted and needed it.
As time went on the group broadened its scope becoming an entertainment platform, with people sharing funny and inspiring jokes, quotes and videos. Although a tiny community, residents were inspired to take part in the regular Thursday clap for The NHS and carers, whilst making use of this opportunity to share a chat, or rather a shout, across the riverbank! The Queen’s birthday in April was an ideal time to remotely raise a glass, or cup of tea, in celebration, with photos shared across the group. Such amazing positivity during tough times.
House dwellers have been doing all they can to support the boating community. Local resident Niki has been inviting boaters to use her refuse collection bins whilst local tips have been closed, a vital service which so many of us take for granted. Neighbour Mal has very generously been giving away fresh eggs from his free-range hens! And some residents have been busy coordinating their growing efforts so that a range of fresh fruit and vegetables are available for sharing later in the year.
The Covid 19 virus has brought devastation to so many and has highlighted the importance of community spirit, so valuable in this time of need. Knowing that the impact of the Brandon Bank experience will survive long after the pandemic has ended is reassuring and heartwarming. A huge thank you to Clare and Martin and everyone involved.