0:00:02 > 0:00:03We're the Hairy Bikers
0:00:03 > 0:00:07and we've made our name cooking real food for real people.
0:00:07 > 0:00:10Glad, you're nibbling on it already!
0:00:10 > 0:00:15We're here to see if our mission to rejuvenate a vital culinary lifeline has worked.
0:00:17 > 0:00:21Meals on wheels is a hot meal and much-needed face-to-face visit...
0:00:21 > 0:00:23Hello, May!
0:00:23 > 0:00:25..ensuring Britain's elderly and infirm
0:00:25 > 0:00:28are kept safe, well fed, and in good spirits.
0:00:28 > 0:00:31Now careful, because it's hot.
0:00:31 > 0:00:35Two years ago, we trialled a plan to turn this essential service
0:00:35 > 0:00:38into a lean, mean catering machine delivering a difference
0:00:38 > 0:00:40to our grans and granddads,
0:00:40 > 0:00:42and fit to roll out across 21st-century Britain.
0:00:44 > 0:00:46Now we're revisiting the two places
0:00:46 > 0:00:49where we first put our master plan into action.
0:00:49 > 0:00:51Great to see you!
0:00:54 > 0:00:55Girls! Hello!
0:00:55 > 0:00:57Last time we'd returned to Elmbridge in Surrey...
0:00:57 > 0:00:59They're back again!
0:00:59 > 0:01:03..where we found the local council-run service flourishing...
0:01:03 > 0:01:06And look at that - fresh veg and salad!
0:01:06 > 0:01:09It's like the inside of Antonio Carluccio's head!
0:01:09 > 0:01:11..and expanding across the county.
0:01:12 > 0:01:14We christen this van Gladys!
0:01:20 > 0:01:23Now we're heading north to Slaithwaite, West Yorkshire...
0:01:23 > 0:01:28Hello, Enid. I'm Si. Nice to meet you. How are you, darling?
0:01:28 > 0:01:29Oh, that were nice!
0:01:29 > 0:01:31..where we rallied a community
0:01:31 > 0:01:33to start a brand-new meals on wheels from scratch.
0:01:33 > 0:01:35Hello, darling. How are you?
0:01:35 > 0:01:36It's roast beef, Yorkshire pudding,
0:01:36 > 0:01:39and the Yorkshire pudding's in gravy. We've had two each.
0:01:39 > 0:01:42- You don't look as though you want anything to eat!- No...
0:01:42 > 0:01:44THEY LAUGH
0:01:44 > 0:01:46We'll be catching up with old friends...
0:01:46 > 0:01:48Is your mouth moving?!
0:01:48 > 0:01:50- You've got food in there, haven't you?- We haven't!
0:01:50 > 0:01:53..and seeing if our trusty volunteers have kept their pledge...
0:01:53 > 0:01:56Bottom line - we'll do anything for them, whatever.
0:01:56 > 0:01:59..to deliver meals once a week to the local old folk.
0:01:59 > 0:02:02- He doesn't like being kissed! - He does now.
0:02:02 > 0:02:04THEY LAUGH
0:02:11 > 0:02:14Tonight we're off to where, two years ago,
0:02:14 > 0:02:18we got a completely new meals on wheels off the ground.
0:02:18 > 0:02:21It took community spirit, good old-fashioned elbow grease,
0:02:21 > 0:02:24and, most important of all - volunteers.
0:02:24 > 0:02:25Oh, 'eck!
0:02:25 > 0:02:29We'd always believed in the power of volunteering
0:02:29 > 0:02:33to change people's lives, but it was still a massive ask.
0:02:33 > 0:02:36We're back in the village of Slaithwaite in West Yorkshire.
0:02:36 > 0:02:38We first came here two years ago,
0:02:38 > 0:02:40because it was one of the many places in the UK
0:02:40 > 0:02:43that had lost its traditional meals-on-wheels service.
0:02:43 > 0:02:47And the local old folk were crying out for a meals-on-wheels service,
0:02:47 > 0:02:49so David and I here decided to do something about it.
0:02:49 > 0:02:54Nearly one in six of the population here is over retirement age.
0:02:54 > 0:02:59I have been living in Slaithwaite over 90 years.
0:02:59 > 0:03:02And with many of the village's pensioners living alone...
0:03:02 > 0:03:05I've been on my own seven years now.
0:03:05 > 0:03:09It's difficult when you're on your own...
0:03:09 > 0:03:11sorting meals out.
0:03:11 > 0:03:16..it was the perfect place to trial our big idea.
0:03:16 > 0:03:20On our first visit we discovered how much the service was missed.
0:03:20 > 0:03:21Hello, Mrs Clay.
0:03:21 > 0:03:25Not least by 90-year-old Christine Clay.
0:03:25 > 0:03:27They were nice. They were nice.
0:03:27 > 0:03:31If you'd got pork you got your stuffing, and your apple sauce
0:03:31 > 0:03:34and baked potato and mashed potato - it was quite enough.
0:03:34 > 0:03:39Since the hot meals stopped, she'd been relying on her daughter Fran.
0:03:39 > 0:03:41I come here every day because I love my mother
0:03:41 > 0:03:44and I want her to have a warm meal at least once a day.
0:03:44 > 0:03:46- Yes.- You know?
0:03:46 > 0:03:50- It was a lot easier with meals on wheels.- Yes.- It really was.
0:03:50 > 0:03:53- Would frozen meals be any good to you?- No, it wouldn't.
0:03:53 > 0:03:56- She doesn't like microwaves. - Fair enough.
0:03:56 > 0:03:57She blew her last one up.
0:03:58 > 0:04:03So, Fran, how much difference would it make for you
0:04:03 > 0:04:06if there was a meals-on-wheels service?
0:04:06 > 0:04:09It would be so nice to have meals on wheels again.
0:04:09 > 0:04:12She does need someone to look after her.
0:04:12 > 0:04:15- Not going to go into a home. - Oh, no, you're not.
0:04:15 > 0:04:18- I definitely don't want go into a home.- No.- No.
0:04:18 > 0:04:21- Why should you?- Just sitting there, like nowt on Earth.
0:04:21 > 0:04:27I've seen them up at t'old folks' home just sitting... like this here.
0:04:27 > 0:04:28- That won't do!- No.- No.
0:04:28 > 0:04:31THEY LAUGH
0:04:31 > 0:04:35Mrs Clay's wish became our personal ambition,
0:04:35 > 0:04:40but if our plan was to succeed we needed some serious people power.
0:04:40 > 0:04:42Oh, my Gawd!
0:04:42 > 0:04:44Oh, crumbs!
0:04:44 > 0:04:46'Our prayers were answered...'
0:04:46 > 0:04:48God, they're gonna be a handful!
0:04:48 > 0:04:51'..by these tenacious Yorkshire business ladies.'
0:04:51 > 0:04:54If you lot can't start meals on wheels in Slawik,
0:04:54 > 0:04:57- nobody can, can they? - Exactly, aye!
0:04:57 > 0:04:59They're no strangers to volunteering.
0:04:59 > 0:05:01Hello, I'm Sallyanne Green,
0:05:01 > 0:05:04and I was Miss January in the Slaithwaite Naked calendar.
0:05:04 > 0:05:09I'm Patricia Bowden and I'm Miss August on the Slaithwaite calendar.
0:05:09 > 0:05:12The year before they'd got their kits off for a good cause,
0:05:12 > 0:05:16raising £1,000 for the local hospice.
0:05:16 > 0:05:19But when it came to meals on wheels, they were total novices.
0:05:19 > 0:05:21- So, sisters, are you all up for it? - ALL:- Yes!
0:05:23 > 0:05:24Come on!
0:05:24 > 0:05:27They're still filled with enthusiasm.
0:05:28 > 0:05:32We set to work training and inspiring our volunteer recruits...
0:05:32 > 0:05:34This is the logo.
0:05:36 > 0:05:38..and helping secure all of the facilities they'd need
0:05:38 > 0:05:41to deliver a freshly cooked meal once a week.
0:05:41 > 0:05:43Tiled. Easily cleanable and washable.
0:05:43 > 0:05:45It's great. It's perfect.
0:05:45 > 0:05:47Back of the net!
0:05:47 > 0:05:48THEY LAUGH
0:05:48 > 0:05:50Look at them!
0:05:50 > 0:05:54Before we knew it, Slaithwaite's meals on wheels was launched.
0:05:54 > 0:05:57Girls, this is it - D-day has arrived!
0:05:57 > 0:05:59- Get in!- ALL:- Yay!
0:05:59 > 0:06:04..and the newly formed "Colander Girls" were determined to keep it up.
0:06:04 > 0:06:05Give us a kiss, love. See you later.
0:06:05 > 0:06:09- The first kiss for I don't know how long.- Ooh!- Donkey's years.
0:06:09 > 0:06:11Yeah, well, you can have another. There you go. See you, darling.
0:06:11 > 0:06:15If we can't deliver these meals on wheels once a week
0:06:15 > 0:06:17for the rest of our lives, then it will be a poor do.
0:06:17 > 0:06:19Two years on and we're back in town,
0:06:19 > 0:06:24ready to roll up our sleeves and get stuck in with today's delivery.
0:06:24 > 0:06:26This is where it all began.
0:06:26 > 0:06:29This is where Slaithwaite's meals on wheels service was born.
0:06:29 > 0:06:31And in this kitchen the girls
0:06:31 > 0:06:35pledged to cook a fresh meal once a week for the old folk.
0:06:37 > 0:06:39# Where are the girls? #
0:06:39 > 0:06:42It's quiet, isn't it?
0:06:42 > 0:06:43What's happening?
0:06:43 > 0:06:45Where's the kitchen?
0:06:45 > 0:06:47- Dude, there's nobody here.- Hello.
0:06:47 > 0:06:49- SI AND DAVE:- Hello! - What are you doing here?
0:06:49 > 0:06:51'Let's hope Sallyanne can explain everything.'
0:06:51 > 0:06:53- What's happened?- Don't you know?
0:06:53 > 0:06:55- BOTH:- What?
0:06:55 > 0:06:57We're not doing meals on wheels any more.
0:06:57 > 0:06:59- What do you mean?- It all went flat once you'd left.
0:06:59 > 0:07:02You were our inspiration guys. It just... We stopped doing them.
0:07:02 > 0:07:04- You lyin' toad.- You're lying. - It's in your eyes!
0:07:04 > 0:07:06- Yeah, I'm lying!- Oh, you rotten sod!
0:07:06 > 0:07:09We've all moved to St James's Church. Come and have a look?
0:07:09 > 0:07:12- Yeah! - You should be cracking on now.
0:07:12 > 0:07:17'Hallelujah! We knew our lasses wouldn't let us down.'
0:07:17 > 0:07:20Slaithwaite's meals on wheels now has a more permanent home
0:07:20 > 0:07:23where Heather, Julie, Pat and the rest of the Colander Girls
0:07:23 > 0:07:28- are gearing up for today's delivery. - CHEERS AND GREETINGS
0:07:30 > 0:07:33Nice to see you!
0:07:33 > 0:07:37Great to see you!
0:07:37 > 0:07:39- You all right? - It's good to see you!
0:07:39 > 0:07:42You're looking lovely, girl! Look at yer!
0:07:42 > 0:07:45- Look at you! Diet works, then! - It does, aye. Works, aye.
0:07:45 > 0:07:46Canny, in'it?
0:07:46 > 0:07:50Shame you didn't do something with the hair at the same time, darling. but we'll let you off.
0:07:50 > 0:07:51THEY ALL LAUGH
0:07:51 > 0:07:54That's fair enough. Fair enough.
0:07:54 > 0:07:56So when did you move to the church?
0:07:56 > 0:07:5818 months.
0:07:58 > 0:08:00Is it working out well here?
0:08:00 > 0:08:02A lot better. Bigger kitchen.
0:08:02 > 0:08:05More space for the cans. A lot easier.
0:08:06 > 0:08:08The new location isn't the only good news.
0:08:08 > 0:08:12In the kitchen there's a whole team of fresh volunteer recruits,
0:08:12 > 0:08:14all slaving over a hot stove.
0:08:14 > 0:08:17So, Pat, there's a fella in the kitchen.
0:08:17 > 0:08:19- Have you got a colander boy? - Yeah, that's our Phil.
0:08:19 > 0:08:21- Your Phil?- Yeah.
0:08:21 > 0:08:23He's a marvel since... Aren't you, Phil?!
0:08:23 > 0:08:24EVERYONE LAUGHS
0:08:24 > 0:08:29Keeping Phil company are husband and wife team Elaine and Roy,
0:08:29 > 0:08:31kitchen-helper Sue,
0:08:31 > 0:08:33local fish and chip shop owner, Binny,
0:08:34 > 0:08:36and princess of puds Claire,
0:08:36 > 0:08:39who's putting the finishing touches to today's dessert
0:08:39 > 0:08:41of chocolate brownies and cream.
0:08:41 > 0:08:46So, Claire, why did you get involved? What was your motivation?
0:08:46 > 0:08:50I'm a student at the minute, so I've quite a flexible timetable.
0:08:50 > 0:08:51I'm doing Nutrition,
0:08:51 > 0:08:54and I saw a sign that they wanted some help in the kitchen.
0:08:54 > 0:08:57- We need young folk involved in meals on wheels.- I know.
0:08:57 > 0:08:59I think it's a really valuable service.
0:08:59 > 0:09:01I mean, it's only one meal a week, but it's still...
0:09:01 > 0:09:04one meal they can rely on and it's a proper cooked one.
0:09:05 > 0:09:07This is lovely, isn't it?
0:09:07 > 0:09:10Are you short on strawberries?
0:09:10 > 0:09:11- No!- No!
0:09:11 > 0:09:13Us? Short on strawberries?
0:09:13 > 0:09:14It's your big portions again!
0:09:16 > 0:09:22Coordinating all these new foot soldiers is a massive job.
0:09:22 > 0:09:24Starting a meals on wheels from scratch
0:09:24 > 0:09:28with our enthusiastic volunteers was always going to be tricky...
0:09:28 > 0:09:29Do we need a whole fillet?
0:09:29 > 0:09:33We don't need a whole fillet for one person - that's too much.
0:09:33 > 0:09:34- No. No.- That's too much.- No, no, no.
0:09:34 > 0:09:37..especially with so many fantastically feisty
0:09:37 > 0:09:39personalities in the mix.
0:09:39 > 0:09:42I'm only saying, how much room do they need?!
0:09:42 > 0:09:44- You're wasting a table! - You gain nothing!
0:09:45 > 0:09:47To see how our eager recruits would fare
0:09:47 > 0:09:49we tasked them with doing a dry run.
0:09:49 > 0:09:51Right, we need to crack on! We haven't got much time - come on!
0:09:52 > 0:09:55I am so confident, not only are we going to do it,
0:09:55 > 0:09:59it is going to taste wonderful, look wonderful,
0:09:59 > 0:10:02and be presented in a really nice way.
0:10:03 > 0:10:05But with some strong opinions flying...
0:10:05 > 0:10:09- Pam knows it's now 12.30 - she's very unhappy about that.- Right, OK.
0:10:09 > 0:10:13- Very unhappy that it all has to be ready for 12.30.- Right, OK.
0:10:13 > 0:10:16The initially calm kitchen soon descended into chaos.
0:10:16 > 0:10:19WATCH THEM BRANDY SNAPS!
0:10:19 > 0:10:21Turn it upside down and peel off while it's hot.
0:10:21 > 0:10:26- Five minutes to half past! - I can't do this.
0:10:26 > 0:10:28One minute to half past.
0:10:28 > 0:10:29I can't get them to work
0:10:29 > 0:10:32and we've got two great big things to go in yet.
0:10:32 > 0:10:35And having too many cooks really did nearly spoil the broth.
0:10:35 > 0:10:38Girls, spread them out so you can get the heat down the side of it.
0:10:38 > 0:10:39That's it.
0:10:39 > 0:10:41We desperately needed a leader.
0:10:41 > 0:10:44I think it might've knocked the cockiness out of them.
0:10:44 > 0:10:46- I think it has. Which is good thing. - Yep.
0:10:46 > 0:10:50Thankfully today, there's one woman who's got all under control.
0:10:50 > 0:10:52Pam's our sergeant major.
0:10:52 > 0:10:55There was nae surprise there! That was always in the offing, wasn't it?
0:10:55 > 0:10:56She's the sergeant major.
0:10:56 > 0:11:00What d'you mean by that? I've no idea what you mean by that.
0:11:00 > 0:11:02So are you the boss?
0:11:02 > 0:11:03No, we don't have bosses.
0:11:03 > 0:11:07We all do us own whack, and we all pull the same amount of weight.
0:11:07 > 0:11:11Rallying the troops is just one of Pat's weekly tasks.
0:11:11 > 0:11:14She now oversees the whole operation,
0:11:14 > 0:11:16helping organise the menus,
0:11:16 > 0:11:17ordering supplies,
0:11:17 > 0:11:22and picking up fantastic fresh local produce for the kitchen.
0:11:22 > 0:11:24We'd have won the Second World War
0:11:24 > 0:11:26a lot quicker if she'd been in charge.
0:11:26 > 0:11:27Thank you. See you later.
0:11:29 > 0:11:31Pat's lovely.
0:11:31 > 0:11:33Laugh-a-minute, her, isn't she?
0:11:33 > 0:11:38Her last but crucial weekly task is checking in with all the recipients.
0:11:38 > 0:11:41Enid, love. It's Pat, meals on wheels.
0:11:41 > 0:11:45On a Monday night I ring round. Course they all want to talk to me.
0:11:45 > 0:11:47So it takes, you know... But I let them know what cooking,
0:11:47 > 0:11:48And if they want a meal.
0:11:48 > 0:11:51Well, that's nice. And I'm not being rude, but you do like to talk.
0:11:51 > 0:11:55- Yes, I do. - Cos you're good at it.- I am.
0:11:55 > 0:11:56Today's meals-on-wheels main
0:11:56 > 0:11:59is a hearty roast beef with all the trimmings.
0:12:00 > 0:12:02Bloomin' 'eck!
0:12:02 > 0:12:06- Real Yorkshire puddin's. - They are corkers!
0:12:06 > 0:12:07A yorkie?
0:12:07 > 0:12:10Purely in the interests of research, of course, we think it's time
0:12:10 > 0:12:12for a little quality control.
0:12:12 > 0:12:15Is your mouth moving? THEY LAUGH
0:12:15 > 0:12:18- You've got food in there, haven't you?- We haven't!
0:12:18 > 0:12:20- Yes, you have!- We haven't. - Look at me!
0:12:20 > 0:12:22Hey, they're lovely yorkies.
0:12:22 > 0:12:25With the kitchen turning out perfectly cooked Yorkshire puds
0:12:25 > 0:12:28and an aura of quite calm, it's a far cry from the chaos
0:12:28 > 0:12:30we witnessed two years ago.
0:12:30 > 0:12:33It seems the lasses and lads of Slaithwaite
0:12:33 > 0:12:35have truly hit their stride.
0:12:35 > 0:12:38Nothing interrupts on a Wednesday.
0:12:38 > 0:12:40Wednesday is meals-on-wheels day.
0:12:40 > 0:12:43Just like you've got to get up and go to work,
0:12:43 > 0:12:45Wednesday is meals-on-wheels day. And we all do it.
0:12:45 > 0:12:48Such resolute commitment means our big-hearted volunteers
0:12:48 > 0:12:51are delivering much more than just a plate of food.
0:12:51 > 0:12:53Hiya! Hello!
0:12:53 > 0:12:57They're taking their time to really go an extra mile.
0:12:57 > 0:13:00Whether it's helping out with the weekly shop...
0:13:00 > 0:13:02Oh, that's a big 'un!
0:13:02 > 0:13:04It's a whopper, that!
0:13:05 > 0:13:07Giving birthday gifts,
0:13:07 > 0:13:09and Christmas treats.
0:13:09 > 0:13:10There you go!
0:13:10 > 0:13:14Or even dishing out the odd short-back-and-sides!
0:13:14 > 0:13:17- Does that feel better for you? - Yeah.
0:13:17 > 0:13:20Let me check them sides are the same length.
0:13:20 > 0:13:21OK.
0:13:22 > 0:13:26Local lass Sue has one small but crucial task due on today's round.
0:13:26 > 0:13:29- I've got to change a light bulb! - THEY LAUGH
0:13:29 > 0:13:31- That's so important!- Yes.
0:13:31 > 0:13:34The bottom line - we'll do anything for them. Whatever.
0:13:34 > 0:13:36Anyway, we've got a bone to pick wi' you two.
0:13:36 > 0:13:38- DAVE AND SI GROAN - I'm afraid.
0:13:38 > 0:13:42- What? What on earth is... - "Slathe-wate"?
0:13:42 > 0:13:45On our last programme, all we got through the whole thing,
0:13:45 > 0:13:46was "Slathe-wate".
0:13:47 > 0:13:50Even though we'd said to you it's "Slath-wate",
0:13:50 > 0:13:51you still said "Slathe-wate".
0:13:53 > 0:13:55THEY LAUGH UPROARIOUSLY
0:13:55 > 0:13:56What can you do?!
0:13:56 > 0:13:58We won't be making that mistake again!
0:14:00 > 0:14:03Back in the kitchen, the team's busy preparing meals
0:14:03 > 0:14:05ready to go out on the rounds.
0:14:05 > 0:14:09But food's only half the challenge of setting up a meals on wheels.
0:14:10 > 0:14:13As a volunteer start-up, we didn't have the resources to buy
0:14:13 > 0:14:15any industrial meals on wheels equipment,
0:14:15 > 0:14:18so we had to find a simple and practical way to deliver
0:14:18 > 0:14:22food to the old folk that kept it piping hot and looking good.
0:14:22 > 0:14:26So we roped in Sallyanne and Heather...
0:14:26 > 0:14:28- How are you? All right? - Well, thanks.- Yeah.
0:14:28 > 0:14:31..to road test some potential bits of kit for transporting the meals.
0:14:32 > 0:14:35It's got to get there, and get there in good nick.
0:14:35 > 0:14:40As well as a simple plate and cover, takeaway containers, and plastic trays,
0:14:40 > 0:14:42there's something rather special too.
0:14:42 > 0:14:45This one. This is really interesting.
0:14:45 > 0:14:48- This is a tiffin box. It's what they use in India.- Yes.
0:14:48 > 0:14:51There's only one way to see which would cope best...
0:14:51 > 0:14:54Yeah - that's one hot dumpling.
0:14:54 > 0:14:59..and that involved filling them with food and sending them off...
0:14:59 > 0:15:01- Good luck!- Thanks!
0:15:01 > 0:15:03Go on!
0:15:03 > 0:15:05- Sallyanne, peep him! - SHE TOOTS HORN
0:15:05 > 0:15:10..on a 40-minute, round trip, up and down the Yorkshire hills.
0:15:10 > 0:15:13Obviously, we want to try and get the food to be delivered
0:15:13 > 0:15:16so it actually looks nice, because that's part of it.
0:15:16 > 0:15:18Oh, no!
0:15:18 > 0:15:21Some of the methods didn't come up to scratch.
0:15:21 > 0:15:23And where's the peas gone?
0:15:23 > 0:15:27- Did you put peas in? - SHE CHUCKLES
0:15:27 > 0:15:31..but the trusty tiffin tin came head-and-shoulders above the rest.
0:15:31 > 0:15:35This actually keeps all your food, hopefully, nice and separate.
0:15:35 > 0:15:40So in terms of heat, which is mega-important, the tiffin box wins.
0:15:41 > 0:15:44Two years on and they're still going great guns.
0:15:44 > 0:15:48It's great the way the tiffin boxes
0:15:48 > 0:15:51do keep all the meat separate to the veg
0:15:51 > 0:15:54and it doesn't come in one mess. I'm glad they've worked.
0:15:54 > 0:15:57Stand by your beds. Stand by your beds.
0:15:57 > 0:16:00- Sar'major!- Hi de hi!
0:16:02 > 0:16:05As midday approaches, it's time to dish up.
0:16:05 > 0:16:08When they've got all the tins piled up, pass them over here,
0:16:08 > 0:16:10and one of the girls will stack them in here.
0:16:10 > 0:16:13- Oh, right.- Right, right.- Will do.
0:16:13 > 0:16:15And could we have a small one for Sue, please?
0:16:15 > 0:16:18- Small one for Sue! - Small one for Sue!
0:16:19 > 0:16:20Big one for Dave!
0:16:23 > 0:16:26We always wanted our newbie volunteers to start small
0:16:26 > 0:16:28before expanding, once they'd found their feet.
0:16:28 > 0:16:33Especially when it came to how many meals to send out.
0:16:33 > 0:16:35Before they delivered their first lunch,
0:16:35 > 0:16:38the women need to track down the local old folk
0:16:38 > 0:16:41most in need of a hot meal and a friendly face.
0:16:41 > 0:16:45- Hello, darling, are you OK? - Yes, thank you.- Good.
0:16:45 > 0:16:47What about Tony? He's a very poorly man now.
0:16:47 > 0:16:49Drawing up a list of potential recipients
0:16:49 > 0:16:54wanting fresh tasty food brought to their door once a week...
0:16:54 > 0:16:55Ah-haah! Two.
0:16:55 > 0:16:57Hello, mate!
0:16:57 > 0:17:01For that first meal they delivered a very manageable 15
0:17:01 > 0:17:03to those that needed it most.
0:17:03 > 0:17:06- Lunch is served. - There's your pudding, my darling.
0:17:06 > 0:17:09But within weeks that number was creeping up!
0:17:10 > 0:17:12- 17 out of the 18 liked it! - There's always one!
0:17:14 > 0:17:19Today's meals on wheels total stands at a brilliant 28...
0:17:19 > 0:17:23There should be 28 containers, because we need 28 puds.
0:17:23 > 0:17:26..almost double the number of the first delivery.
0:17:26 > 0:17:28It just goes to show how much these meals
0:17:28 > 0:17:31are wanted by the old folk of Slaithwaite.
0:17:31 > 0:17:33Who's got a car?
0:17:33 > 0:17:34As the gang gears up for delivery,
0:17:34 > 0:17:37there's even more new volunteers,
0:17:37 > 0:17:39all trying to get the meals off on the rounds.
0:17:39 > 0:17:42Right, you're going with Jillian, you're going with Jenny.
0:17:42 > 0:17:45Including staff from a local engineering firm.
0:17:45 > 0:17:48- Do you enjoy it? - Yeah.- We do, yeah. It's good. Yeah.
0:17:48 > 0:17:51We'd stay with them all afternoon we could.
0:17:51 > 0:17:52Having a chat.
0:17:52 > 0:17:56The church's Rev has even popped in for a taste of today's food.
0:17:56 > 0:18:01Well, I come in every Wednesday about quarter to 12 to have my meal.
0:18:01 > 0:18:03I usually get the leftovers.
0:18:03 > 0:18:05- That's OK with me.- Yeah?
0:18:05 > 0:18:08It's all good stuff, beautifully cooked, helps me, helps my wife -
0:18:08 > 0:18:10job's a good 'un.
0:18:11 > 0:18:15Without further ado, it's time to hit the road.
0:18:15 > 0:18:17I saw Jack last time.
0:18:17 > 0:18:22- Yes. He's best friends with Cyril. - Oh, excellent.
0:18:22 > 0:18:25- Do you want me to take the dinners? - Yes, please.
0:18:25 > 0:18:28You'd have been better to've sat this side. There's more room.
0:18:28 > 0:18:30- Are you OK?- Yes.
0:18:31 > 0:18:33- SI SPEAKS LOUDLY - Do you want your seat belt on?
0:18:33 > 0:18:36- Yes, I better had.- Are you sure?!
0:18:36 > 0:18:40First stop, Jack, who's lived in Slaithwaite for almost 70 years.
0:18:40 > 0:18:42We don't mess about, you know?
0:18:42 > 0:18:44Because Jack phones Cyril and says "Have they been yet?"
0:18:44 > 0:18:52- Hello, Jack!- Hello. Hello, darling. How are you?- Hello, Jack. I'm Dave.
0:18:52 > 0:18:55- Nice to meet you, Jack.- Hello, Jack. I'm Si. How are you, sir?
0:18:55 > 0:19:00It's roast beef, Yorkshire pudding, two veg, all the trimmings.
0:19:00 > 0:19:03And the Yorkshire puddings are great - we've had two each.
0:19:03 > 0:19:06You don't look as though you want anything to eat!
0:19:06 > 0:19:08THEY ALL LAUGH
0:19:10 > 0:19:12- You can rely on the truth, can't you? You know!- Yeah.
0:19:12 > 0:19:14They make you smile, don't they?
0:19:14 > 0:19:17If you went in there feeling a little bit down, they're a tonic.
0:19:17 > 0:19:20It works both ways, doesn't it?
0:19:20 > 0:19:22They make you laugh. It's just great.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25One delivery down, but there's plenty more chats to have,
0:19:25 > 0:19:28and mouths to feed.
0:19:28 > 0:19:31Hello, Cyril. How are you?
0:19:31 > 0:19:37How are you? Oh, look how smart you look!
0:19:37 > 0:19:38Not really.
0:19:38 > 0:19:42- Do you want to cup of tea, darling? - I've just made one.
0:19:42 > 0:19:43I'll pop pudding in.
0:19:45 > 0:19:47Roast beef and...
0:19:48 > 0:19:49Yorkshire pudding!
0:19:49 > 0:19:52- He don't like being kissed! - He does now!
0:19:54 > 0:19:57- Right, Cyril. We'll see you next week, sweetheart, OK?- See you.
0:20:01 > 0:20:04Hello, Enid. I'm Si. Nice to meet you, how are you?
0:20:04 > 0:20:07Oh, that were nice.
0:20:07 > 0:20:10Do you want anything else? Would you like a drink?
0:20:10 > 0:20:12- No, I've just had one.- OK, then.
0:20:12 > 0:20:15Any other jobs you need me to do today?
0:20:15 > 0:20:17OK, my love. OK, then.
0:20:17 > 0:20:19- It was lovely to meet you, Enid. - Lovely to meet you.
0:20:19 > 0:20:21- Thank you. - See you next week, Enid.
0:20:21 > 0:20:22ALL: Bye!
0:20:22 > 0:20:23Any time.
0:20:23 > 0:20:25SHE CHUCKLES
0:20:25 > 0:20:28With the meals all delivered, it's clear our volunteers
0:20:28 > 0:20:30have well and truly pulled it off.
0:20:30 > 0:20:33- By God, they've bloody done it! - Yes, they have done it.
0:20:33 > 0:20:36The energy and the commitment is quite remarkable.
0:20:36 > 0:20:37It's just brilliant.
0:20:37 > 0:20:40And proud of them we are, too.
0:20:41 > 0:20:46Rousing volunteers was always at the core of our meals-on-wheels project,
0:20:46 > 0:20:49but to make it sustainable, it had to be a community effort.
0:20:50 > 0:20:53And as soon as the deliveries were up and running,
0:20:53 > 0:20:56it seemed the residents of Slaithwaite agreed.
0:20:56 > 0:20:59Have you heard about the new meals on wheels service?
0:20:59 > 0:21:01- Yeah.- Fantastic.- Yeah, yeah.
0:21:01 > 0:21:04It's the essence of what community is, isn't it?
0:21:04 > 0:21:06Word was spreading like wildfire!
0:21:06 > 0:21:09I think it's a fantastic idea, actually. Giving them a hot, nourishing meal
0:21:09 > 0:21:13and then they are also getting a visit, so it's a bit of comfort
0:21:13 > 0:21:16and, you know, excitement for them, I think.
0:21:16 > 0:21:20And it was clear the villagers were behind us all the way.
0:21:20 > 0:21:22I think it's a fantastic idea.
0:21:22 > 0:21:25It's great to get communities like this together, definitely.
0:21:25 > 0:21:28- Just creating a real buzz, I think it's lovely.- Really?
0:21:28 > 0:21:29Yeah.
0:21:29 > 0:21:32Meals on Wheels is now a staple of the community
0:21:32 > 0:21:35with everybody getting in on the act.
0:21:35 > 0:21:39From the greengrocers offering up cost-price fruit and veg...
0:21:39 > 0:21:42Morning, Binny. How many of those will we need?
0:21:42 > 0:21:44About 20 carrots?
0:21:44 > 0:21:45More?
0:21:45 > 0:21:48To the butcher giving fantastic discounts on meat...
0:21:50 > 0:21:52Even the local dairy farm is providing milk
0:21:52 > 0:21:54and cream free of charge!
0:21:54 > 0:21:57I thought Meals on Wheels had died a death years ago
0:21:57 > 0:22:00something when I was a child is being resurrected and
0:22:00 > 0:22:03when we saw what they were doing and heard what they were doing we thought
0:22:03 > 0:22:05it would good to be involved.
0:22:06 > 0:22:07It's a true community effort
0:22:07 > 0:22:10and it helps keep the costs of the meals down.
0:22:10 > 0:22:13I think it's good it's local people helping local people.
0:22:13 > 0:22:17It's what milkmen do, look after customers.
0:22:17 > 0:22:20Belonging to a community like Slaithwaite - who can run something
0:22:20 > 0:22:25like this and everybody's behind you, supporting you - it's a good feeling.
0:22:25 > 0:22:29To give our lasses the very best possible chances of
0:22:29 > 0:22:32success we wanted them to have a slush fund to pay for any
0:22:32 > 0:22:35emergencies and to get them on their feet.
0:22:38 > 0:22:42So, inspired by the Colander Girls and their naked Colander...
0:22:42 > 0:22:44..we dropped our kecks!
0:22:44 > 0:22:46LAUGHTER
0:22:46 > 0:22:48How do you want us, Gaz?
0:22:48 > 0:22:50OK, guys, that's it, straight down the lens.
0:22:50 > 0:22:53Do you want to take your hand off your helmet...?
0:22:53 > 0:22:54That's it, there, good.
0:22:54 > 0:22:57- Posing starkers for a T-shirt. - That's brilliant.
0:22:57 > 0:22:59We got naked!
0:22:59 > 0:23:01SCREAMING
0:23:02 > 0:23:05- You, get your money out!- 80...90...
0:23:05 > 0:23:08And raising some serious cash in the process.
0:23:09 > 0:23:11900.
0:23:11 > 0:23:14Taking our lead and with plenty of their own initiative,
0:23:14 > 0:23:17the women have been busy adding to the pot ever since.
0:23:17 > 0:23:21We've had money from doing lady's nights, fashion nights...
0:23:21 > 0:23:25Local businesses, local charities donate money.
0:23:25 > 0:23:29We do get a lot of support and it's built up momentum.
0:23:29 > 0:23:32The group's fundraising effort's mean the price
0:23:32 > 0:23:36the old folk pay to receive the service is still as low as possible.
0:23:36 > 0:23:40We've been able to keep the meals at £3 a week for...
0:23:40 > 0:23:45the last two years, and, I think, certainly for the next three years.
0:23:45 > 0:23:48With the future of Meals on Wheels looking secure in Slaithwaite,
0:23:48 > 0:23:52the women have taken the bold step of expanding.
0:23:52 > 0:23:56And now, even deliver a second meal, once a week, at teatime.
0:23:56 > 0:23:58The pensioner's favourite.
0:23:58 > 0:24:00Fish and chips.
0:24:00 > 0:24:02Fish and small chips for Doris.
0:24:02 > 0:24:07Every Friday, led by Pat and our Phil, up to 20 perfectly, parcelled
0:24:07 > 0:24:09portions are despatched around the village.
0:24:09 > 0:24:14- Careful, cos it's hot.- All for the bargain price of £3 a pop.
0:24:14 > 0:24:18As well as a delicious slap-up treat it's a second weekly chance for a natter
0:24:18 > 0:24:20- with the old folk.- All right, love.
0:24:20 > 0:24:23- Don't you go trotting off anywhere, will you?- No.- OK!
0:24:24 > 0:24:28- Something that's very much appreciated.- Ah, it's lovely.
0:24:29 > 0:24:32You get up on a Friday and think, "Oh, boy, it's Friday!
0:24:32 > 0:24:33SHE LAUGHS
0:24:34 > 0:24:36And they are big 'uns!
0:24:38 > 0:24:40Slaithwaite's old folk may have wanted our meals
0:24:40 > 0:24:43on wheels to start in the village but they weren't going to
0:24:43 > 0:24:47settle for second best and always told us exactly what they thought.
0:24:47 > 0:24:49It must be all the fresh Yorkshire air.
0:24:53 > 0:24:57None of them stick more in our minds than the simply unforgettable
0:24:57 > 0:24:59Christine Clay.
0:24:59 > 0:25:02A woman who was never backwards in coming forwards.
0:25:02 > 0:25:03What's your favourite?
0:25:03 > 0:25:06What would you like to have on your Meals on Wheels?
0:25:06 > 0:25:09- I like a nice bit of meat.- Yeah. - I don't like Yorkshire pudding.
0:25:09 > 0:25:13Beef - I like it well-cooked and some nice thick gravy with it,
0:25:13 > 0:25:16not too much and I like boiled potatoes
0:25:16 > 0:25:19and a few mashed potatoes, that's what I like.
0:25:19 > 0:25:21- But I don't like onions!- No.
0:25:21 > 0:25:25- Can't bear 'em.- No onions, then. - I can't abide peas.
0:25:25 > 0:25:29- Do you not like mushy peas or...? - No, I don't care for them.
0:25:29 > 0:25:31I'm not Yorkshire enough for them.
0:25:31 > 0:25:33This is all very good information...
0:25:33 > 0:25:37- I do like a nice bit of fish. - Yes.- My favourite fish is hake.
0:25:37 > 0:25:41A nice bit of hake and some nice bread and butter,
0:25:41 > 0:25:43you've got a feast for a king.
0:25:44 > 0:25:47With such fabulously feisty opinions when it came to delivering
0:25:47 > 0:25:50the very first Slaithwaite Meals on Wheels...
0:25:50 > 0:25:56I think it's safe to say that Slaithwaite Meals on Wheels is back.
0:25:56 > 0:25:59Having gathered the town behind us...
0:25:59 > 0:26:01- WOMAN SINGS - First delivery.
0:26:01 > 0:26:05..there was only one possible person to have the first taste.
0:26:05 > 0:26:09- Hello, sweetie.- Hello, Mrs Clay! - Brought a nice day, haven't you?
0:26:09 > 0:26:11ALL SHOUT
0:26:11 > 0:26:14- Who's that?- Meals on Wheels. - Very good.- May we come in?
0:26:15 > 0:26:18- Very good.- We've brought you a fantastic meal for...
0:26:18 > 0:26:20- Have you?- Yes, we have.
0:26:20 > 0:26:24And you've got a pick of wine or stout!
0:26:24 > 0:26:26- Oh, I don't drink that! - No, you can have a cup of tea.
0:26:26 > 0:26:28LAUGHTER
0:26:28 > 0:26:31- We got you a nice shepherd's pie. - Very good.
0:26:31 > 0:26:34- And some buttered carrots. - Yes.- Some broccoli.
0:26:34 > 0:26:37And a lovely plum and almond tart and then a nice piece of boiled
0:26:37 > 0:26:39fruitcake and Cheshire cheese for afters.
0:26:39 > 0:26:41I don't have to eat all day again, then.
0:26:41 > 0:26:43LAUGHTER
0:26:43 > 0:26:45The fruitcake and cheese you can keep for your tea.
0:26:51 > 0:26:54It's shepherd's pie as it should be shepherd's pie.
0:26:54 > 0:26:55ALL CHEER
0:26:59 > 0:27:03We've had some very sad news - Christine Clay, the fantastic
0:27:03 > 0:27:0592-year-old lady that we delivered
0:27:05 > 0:27:08the very first Slaithwaite Meals on Wheels to,
0:27:08 > 0:27:11she very sadly died a couple of months ago.
0:27:11 > 0:27:13And, you know, she was such a force of nature
0:27:13 > 0:27:15and had such a wicked sense of humour.
0:27:15 > 0:27:19What we've decided to do is catch up with her daughter, Fran,
0:27:19 > 0:27:21to see what the meals meant to her in her last days.
0:27:23 > 0:27:28Born in Scotland in 1920, Mrs Clay left school at 14
0:27:28 > 0:27:32before working in a aircraft factory in Coventry during the War.
0:27:36 > 0:27:40After marrying her husband Frank in 1949 she started a family.
0:27:40 > 0:27:44Before returning to work as a weaver in one of Slaithwaite's many
0:27:44 > 0:27:45textile mills.
0:27:48 > 0:27:52- Fran!- Come in.- Hi, Fran, how are you, darling?
0:27:52 > 0:27:56- Welcome back.- Hello, darling. - Nice to see you.
0:27:56 > 0:27:59- And our sympathies for your mam. - I know, I know.
0:27:59 > 0:28:02- She was a belter.- I know.
0:28:02 > 0:28:05It was very sad. She had a nice funeral, as she wanted it,
0:28:05 > 0:28:08she expected it - you know my mother - "I want this and I want that
0:28:08 > 0:28:10"and I want you to have this and that."
0:28:10 > 0:28:14- And...the two girls from the Meals on Wheels came.- Yes.
0:28:14 > 0:28:18They were very nice. And in the eulogy they were mentioned.
0:28:18 > 0:28:21Did the Meals on Wheels mean a lot to her for the short time
0:28:21 > 0:28:24- she was to enjoy...?- Oh...what! The girls were wonderful.- Yeah.
0:28:24 > 0:28:26The girls were wonderful.
0:28:26 > 0:28:29Yes, they always had a word for her -
0:28:29 > 0:28:31when it was her birthday they were there
0:28:31 > 0:28:36- and yes, she loved them.- And what does that sort of mean to you?
0:28:36 > 0:28:39That meant I got a bit of time to myself.
0:28:39 > 0:28:42- For nine years I haven't had any time to myself.- Yes.
0:28:42 > 0:28:47- Now, I've got lots of time to myself. - She liked a good feed, didn't she?
0:28:47 > 0:28:49- Oh, yes!- She loved her food. - And she loved you two.
0:28:49 > 0:28:51Oh, we loved your mum, too.
0:28:51 > 0:28:53Honestly we were just saying about her before,
0:28:53 > 0:28:57she was such a force of nature and had such a wicked sense of humour.
0:28:57 > 0:28:59- Yep.- She was just fantastic.
0:28:59 > 0:29:02We still nick some of her lines, you know. We use them.
0:29:02 > 0:29:05ALL LAUGH
0:29:05 > 0:29:07It means a lot for Dave and I because we did have a very,
0:29:07 > 0:29:10very, very big soft spot for your mam.
0:29:10 > 0:29:15- Yeah.- And it means a great deal that the service that we've helped...
0:29:15 > 0:29:20- Yeah.- ..create, worked for her. Darling, it's lovely to see ya.
0:29:20 > 0:29:22We're off. It's good to see, you, sweetheart.
0:29:22 > 0:29:26- And think you very much for sharing that.- Thank you.- Bye, dear.
0:29:26 > 0:29:28- Keep your chin up. - Yeah, I'll try me best, yeah.
0:29:28 > 0:29:30- See you, sweetheart.- Bye.- See you.
0:29:35 > 0:29:38Unfortunately, Mrs Clay isn't the only Meals on Wheels
0:29:38 > 0:29:41recipient who has passed away in the last two years.
0:29:41 > 0:29:43- Here's your pudding, my darling. - I'm Dave.
0:29:43 > 0:29:45Losing friends is an occupational hazard
0:29:45 > 0:29:47when you're caring for old people.
0:29:47 > 0:29:50But that doesn't make it any less sad.
0:29:50 > 0:29:54The downside of doing Meals on Wheels is, of course, when they die.
0:29:54 > 0:29:58Because you get so close to these people and it's quite heartbreaking.
0:29:58 > 0:30:00I think four out of five funerals I've been to
0:30:00 > 0:30:02they have mentioned Meals on Wheels.
0:30:02 > 0:30:03Yeah.
0:30:03 > 0:30:07And, I think, at one funeral we actually got the collection.
0:30:07 > 0:30:10At least, with the new Slaithwaite Meals on Wheels
0:30:10 > 0:30:14we can take comfort in knowing we did our bit to bring a moment of joy
0:30:14 > 0:30:18into the old folks' lives, making the most of every second.
0:30:18 > 0:30:20I think that's the only way you can think about it, celebrate
0:30:20 > 0:30:23the last few years they've had when they've had a little bit more.
0:30:25 > 0:30:28Our incredible band of volunteers are so committed we
0:30:28 > 0:30:32know they'd always want their Meals on Wheels in Slaithwaite to
0:30:32 > 0:30:34be the very best it can be.
0:30:34 > 0:30:37When you're starting a service from scratch, getting honest
0:30:37 > 0:30:41feedback is crucial to letting you know what you're doing right.
0:30:41 > 0:30:43And, where you need to improve.
0:30:43 > 0:30:47Dearly departed Christine Clay was never short of an opinion
0:30:47 > 0:30:50but to find out what the other recipients think we've
0:30:50 > 0:30:53been a bit sneaky and conducted a little survey on the sly.
0:30:53 > 0:30:57And we've gathered the team to reveal the results.
0:30:57 > 0:30:59BOTH: Hello, ladies! ALL: Hi!
0:30:59 > 0:31:02- How you doing?- Really well.- OK.
0:31:02 > 0:31:05Right, we think we're doing a great job
0:31:05 > 0:31:07but it doesn't matter what we think.
0:31:07 > 0:31:09It's about what the recipients think.
0:31:09 > 0:31:13Aye, so what we've done is conducted a secret straw poll to find
0:31:13 > 0:31:17out what your elderly clientele really think of your efforts.
0:31:17 > 0:31:19- Oh, no.- And guess what?
0:31:19 > 0:31:22- What?- Go on.- We've got the results.
0:31:22 > 0:31:24ALL: Ohh!
0:31:24 > 0:31:25David...
0:31:25 > 0:31:28First things first - we wanted to know what are the favourite dishes
0:31:28 > 0:31:32- of Slaithwaite's old folk? - Yeah, I like the old-fashioned meals.
0:31:32 > 0:31:38- You know, straightforward. - Chicken, definitely. I love chicken.
0:31:38 > 0:31:42Ham and pineapple or meat and potato pie.
0:31:42 > 0:31:47They love the meat and potato pie, the roast beef, the fish -
0:31:47 > 0:31:51honestly, ladies, there was endless, endless praise for you.
0:31:53 > 0:31:56- But, it wasn't all good news. - We wanted to discover if any of
0:31:56 > 0:31:59the dishes didn't get the old folks' thumbs-up.
0:31:59 > 0:32:01They don't like - mince!
0:32:05 > 0:32:08- I don't like mince. - Well, I don't like that mince.
0:32:10 > 0:32:12I don't like the mince, no.
0:32:12 > 0:32:15Oh, I don't like mince, I can't stick mince.
0:32:15 > 0:32:17I don't like mince, no way, no.
0:32:18 > 0:32:22That's coming in loud and clear! But we think we've got a solution.
0:32:22 > 0:32:26We've created The Hairy Biker's Deliver a Difference
0:32:26 > 0:32:28minceless...
0:32:28 > 0:32:29LAUGHTER
0:32:29 > 0:32:34..Meals on Wheels cookbook! Everything's there...!
0:32:34 > 0:32:37- Pat...- Sarge!
0:32:38 > 0:32:41Lastly, what do they make of the volunteers who organise and
0:32:41 > 0:32:44cook the meals in their own spare time?
0:32:44 > 0:32:45We asked...
0:32:45 > 0:32:48for their comments on you...
0:32:48 > 0:32:50They said...
0:32:50 > 0:32:52"I couldn't do without it."
0:32:53 > 0:32:57"It's the only hot meal I have each week."
0:32:57 > 0:32:58QUIET GROANS
0:32:58 > 0:32:59Yeah.
0:32:59 > 0:33:01"The girls are brilliant."
0:33:02 > 0:33:04They also said...
0:33:05 > 0:33:07..that you're angels.
0:33:07 > 0:33:10- Ohh.- You're going to have us in tears in a minute.
0:33:10 > 0:33:13"I am so very grateful."
0:33:13 > 0:33:15And from all of them...
0:33:15 > 0:33:17a very simple...
0:33:18 > 0:33:19..thank you.
0:33:26 > 0:33:29- It's not often we're speechless. - Very proud.
0:33:29 > 0:33:31It's exactly how we would want them to think about us.
0:33:31 > 0:33:33It's just lovely to hear them say it, really.
0:33:33 > 0:33:37- I think we should have a group hug. - Yeah!- Come on, give us a snog!
0:33:37 > 0:33:38LAUGHTER
0:33:38 > 0:33:40- Get in, girls!- Get in!
0:33:40 > 0:33:41CHEERING
0:33:41 > 0:33:45- They're nice girls and they're doing a damn good job.- Well done, Sally.
0:33:45 > 0:33:46Well done to you.
0:33:46 > 0:33:50They are a smashing bunch of ladies, yes, they are.
0:33:50 > 0:33:52KISSING
0:33:52 > 0:33:56I really appreciate what they're doing, as, I'm sure, all the other
0:33:56 > 0:33:59- pensioners do.- They're brilliant.
0:34:02 > 0:34:06It's really, really touching, you know, to hear them say that
0:34:06 > 0:34:08themselves.
0:34:08 > 0:34:10I'm glad they didn't say that to our faces -
0:34:10 > 0:34:14- we would all have been blubbering, wouldn't we?- Yeah, yeah.
0:34:14 > 0:34:17And it's a shame they don't like mince cos the shepherd's pie
0:34:17 > 0:34:19is fabulous!
0:34:19 > 0:34:21We'll be here for ever. Two years, four years, six years.
0:34:21 > 0:34:24We'll have our grandchildren delivering, we'll have to get
0:34:24 > 0:34:25them trained early.
0:34:27 > 0:34:29Getting Meals on Wheels back on the menu in Slaithwaite
0:34:29 > 0:34:33was the first step in proving volunteer-led services
0:34:33 > 0:34:36have a future in 21st-century Britain.
0:34:36 > 0:34:38But we didn't want it to end there.
0:34:38 > 0:34:41We wanted to convince other local communities that through
0:34:41 > 0:34:45volunteering they could deliver a difference to their old folk too.
0:34:48 > 0:34:51So, we brought our Meals on Wheels ambassadors three miles up the
0:34:51 > 0:34:54road to the neighbouring village of Marsden where we had a little
0:34:54 > 0:34:56job to spring on them.
0:34:57 > 0:35:02- BOTH: Hello, girls!- Hello, come in, come in. Gather round.
0:35:02 > 0:35:05Now, girls. What do you do?
0:35:05 > 0:35:09What do you businesswomen of the Slaithwaite community do?
0:35:09 > 0:35:12- Drink gin.- Other than drink gin. - LAUGHTER
0:35:12 > 0:35:15- What do you do? You sell. Don't you?- ALL: Yes.
0:35:15 > 0:35:16This...
0:35:16 > 0:35:18GROANING
0:35:18 > 0:35:21- ..is what we want you to do. - Oh, dear!
0:35:21 > 0:35:22We want you
0:35:22 > 0:35:26to pitch and sell the idea
0:35:26 > 0:35:32- of a new Meals on Wheels service to the populace of Marsden.- No problem.
0:35:32 > 0:35:36Basically, it's your job to convince them that they can,
0:35:36 > 0:35:38that they should
0:35:38 > 0:35:41and that they will set up their own Meals on Wheels service.
0:35:41 > 0:35:43ALL: Yeah. OK.
0:35:43 > 0:35:44Do you think you're up for it?
0:35:44 > 0:35:47ALL: Yes. Definitely.
0:35:47 > 0:35:50If they could inspire other people with the power of volunteering...
0:35:50 > 0:35:53If we're passionate about what we're doing - and I think we all are -
0:35:53 > 0:35:55then I think that will catch on.
0:35:57 > 0:36:00..and explain what they, as volunteers can get back in return
0:36:00 > 0:36:02then we'd be on to a winner.
0:36:02 > 0:36:05I don't think we'll have a problem convincing the old folk.
0:36:05 > 0:36:07I think they'll be up for it, I think it will be trying to get
0:36:07 > 0:36:10people to give what we've given.
0:36:10 > 0:36:13It's just trying to get them to give up their time.
0:36:13 > 0:36:16With the good folk of Marsden taking their places...
0:36:16 > 0:36:17There's some seats here...
0:36:17 > 0:36:19..it was showtime!
0:36:19 > 0:36:22Thanks very much for coming along this afternoon.
0:36:22 > 0:36:24We are a group of Slaithwaite businesswomen.
0:36:24 > 0:36:27The ladies put on a masterclass in selling.
0:36:27 > 0:36:29From the practical reasons to volunteer...
0:36:29 > 0:36:32Let's have some facts...who's got some facts?
0:36:32 > 0:36:36One million elderly people describe themselves as being very,
0:36:36 > 0:36:37very lonely.
0:36:37 > 0:36:39..to the emotional benefits they felt too.
0:36:39 > 0:36:42And what I've got out of it, and I mean this really sincerely,
0:36:42 > 0:36:48I feel like I've got my mum back because I'm actually with people...
0:36:48 > 0:36:51that-that give out as much as I give them, I'm sorry.
0:36:55 > 0:36:59To round it all off we were roped in for some comic relief.
0:36:59 > 0:37:00KNOCKS
0:37:00 > 0:37:02Hello, it's Meals on Wheels.
0:37:02 > 0:37:04What...?
0:37:04 > 0:37:05LAUGHTER
0:37:05 > 0:37:10- Today you're having... - Roast beef and Yorkshire pud. - And we're having home-cooked scones.
0:37:10 > 0:37:11- Scones?- Yes.- Fantastic.
0:37:11 > 0:37:13- POSH ACCENT:- Scones.
0:37:13 > 0:37:17Aye, aye, aye, aye, hold on. Who's doing washing up?
0:37:17 > 0:37:18LAUGHTER
0:37:21 > 0:37:23Time for the moment of truth.
0:37:23 > 0:37:25Would you put up your hand
0:37:25 > 0:37:28if you honestly feel that you could make a difference to Marsden.
0:37:28 > 0:37:29ALL: Yes!
0:37:29 > 0:37:33People of Marsden, if Slaithwaite can do it, you can do it. Come on! Let's have you.
0:37:33 > 0:37:34- Well done.- Thank you.
0:37:36 > 0:37:39Two years on and local resident Lindsay who was at our Marsden
0:37:39 > 0:37:42meeting has made good on her pledge to do
0:37:42 > 0:37:44something for the village's old folk.
0:37:44 > 0:37:48I put my hand up at the end when they asked who was willing to
0:37:48 > 0:37:50have a go at setting something up.
0:37:51 > 0:37:55She found the older residents of Marsden weren't just crying out for
0:37:55 > 0:37:59Meals on Wheels, but wanted a chance to see their friends too.
0:37:59 > 0:38:02We call it the Marsden Meet and Eat Lunch Club.
0:38:02 > 0:38:05We invite people to come from half past ten in the morning
0:38:05 > 0:38:08and we finish about half past one.
0:38:09 > 0:38:14Each Wednesday, Lindsay and her team serve up to 25 meals to local
0:38:14 > 0:38:17old folk all in the mood for a right good natter.
0:38:18 > 0:38:20We cook a fresh meal every week.
0:38:20 > 0:38:24Volunteers come and do all the cooking.
0:38:24 > 0:38:27There's various different entertainments.
0:38:27 > 0:38:29We have quiz sheets.
0:38:29 > 0:38:31A lot of the time they just want to come and see their friends
0:38:31 > 0:38:33and just sit and have a chat.
0:38:33 > 0:38:38It's not really a difficult thing to set up if you've got the volunteers.
0:38:38 > 0:38:42It's nice to come to meet people and talk to people,
0:38:42 > 0:38:44and, you know, be in some company.
0:38:44 > 0:38:45That's what...
0:38:45 > 0:38:49- what I come for.- Yeah, that's what I come for. Yeah.- Yes.
0:38:50 > 0:38:55I just like all the friends and family, you know, really.
0:38:55 > 0:38:58Jean saves me a seat. SHE CHUCKLES
0:38:58 > 0:39:01And I see all these ladies who I've known for years.
0:39:01 > 0:39:06One or two at school when I was. I do look forward to it.
0:39:06 > 0:39:08I was so pleased when they said I could come.
0:39:10 > 0:39:11I've enjoyed every meal.
0:39:13 > 0:39:17There's people that's lonely. It's nice to get out
0:39:17 > 0:39:19and get into a bit of company.
0:39:19 > 0:39:22And a few fresh faces.
0:39:22 > 0:39:24SHE LAUGHS
0:39:24 > 0:39:28It's not just the old folk who are getting something out of it.
0:39:28 > 0:39:32We all have a nice time. We have a good giggle with them.
0:39:32 > 0:39:36We get as much out of it as we put in cos it's...it's very fulfilling.
0:39:37 > 0:39:41It's fantastic to hear that Marsden has taken the volunteering
0:39:41 > 0:39:44spirit to heart and is now providing both a weekly lunch
0:39:44 > 0:39:46and a chat for their old folk.
0:39:48 > 0:39:51But the people of Yorkshire were clearly up for a challenge.
0:39:51 > 0:39:53Word of our big idea has spread far and wide
0:39:53 > 0:39:57and there is even more good news just along the valley.
0:39:57 > 0:40:00A mere five miles up the road yet more volunteers have got
0:40:00 > 0:40:04Meals on Wheels on the march.
0:40:04 > 0:40:05And today we're in Golcar.
0:40:05 > 0:40:08Because we've heard that there are two sisters
0:40:08 > 0:40:12inspired by the Colander Girls that have started their own service here.
0:40:12 > 0:40:15Sharon and Lynne have lived in Golcar all their lives
0:40:15 > 0:40:19and were desperate to bring Meals on Wheels to the village.
0:40:19 > 0:40:23- What have you two been up to? - About 18 months ago...?- Yeah.
0:40:23 > 0:40:27- We got involved with Slaithwaite Meals on Wheels which you helped set up.- Yes.
0:40:27 > 0:40:31Erm, and we thought we'd like to have a go in our own village
0:40:31 > 0:40:33of Golcar and we just put some posters up
0:40:33 > 0:40:37- to see if anybody else was interested in volunteering with us.- Right.
0:40:37 > 0:40:40The sisters were overwhelmed with the response.
0:40:40 > 0:40:43There were plenty of willing locals wanting to volunteer
0:40:43 > 0:40:44and get involved.
0:40:44 > 0:40:48- You go in there and I'll get your dinner. I'll make you a cup of tea. - All right.
0:40:48 > 0:40:53We have about 20 in total and we usually manage around 12 each week.
0:40:53 > 0:40:57- Yeah.- Cos people don't have to come every single week.
0:40:57 > 0:41:02If you didn't have volunteers it wouldn't be Meals on Wheels...
0:41:02 > 0:41:06There was one big issue the group faced - nobody wanted to take
0:41:06 > 0:41:07responsibility for the cooking.
0:41:07 > 0:41:09There you go.
0:41:10 > 0:41:13Determined to succeed, Sharon and Lynne had a brainwave
0:41:13 > 0:41:15and went to talk to the local pub to see
0:41:15 > 0:41:17if their kitchen could lend a hand.
0:41:17 > 0:41:20We smiled very, very nicely at Darryl at the Golcar Lily
0:41:20 > 0:41:22- and asked him if he'd cook for us. - Good one.
0:41:22 > 0:41:25- Very nicely.- And he gave in very quickly and agreed to do it.
0:41:25 > 0:41:29Roping in the local eatery to cook the meals is a genius solution
0:41:29 > 0:41:32and head chef and landlord Darryl was only too happy to
0:41:32 > 0:41:35volunteer both his time and his kitchen.
0:41:35 > 0:41:38Why was it important to you to help with Meals on Wheels?
0:41:38 > 0:41:40Basically just helping the community. They came to me and said
0:41:40 > 0:41:43"Can you do it?" and I thought, "Yeah, why not?" It's not
0:41:43 > 0:41:47a million miles out of our way so it's easy enough to do, so, yeah.
0:41:47 > 0:41:49It's so straightforward.
0:41:49 > 0:41:51- It's not difficult. - So, what sort of thing do you cook?
0:41:51 > 0:41:57- Sausage and mash.- Yeah.- Today it's braised beef and jam roly-poly
0:41:57 > 0:42:00so it's fairly...it's not...it's English food...
0:42:00 > 0:42:02- The stuff people want to eat.- Yeah.
0:42:02 > 0:42:05Next week they are having roast pork dinner and cheesecake so...
0:42:05 > 0:42:08It's comfort food. It's what you want so you can look forward to it
0:42:08 > 0:42:11once or twice a week, it's brilliant.
0:42:11 > 0:42:13Darryl and his crack team are now turning
0:42:13 > 0:42:16out 32 portions of restaurant-quality food every week
0:42:16 > 0:42:21provided at cost price and with all the health and safety boxes ticked.
0:42:21 > 0:42:24It's the perfect solution if people want to deliver
0:42:24 > 0:42:26a difference to their local old folk
0:42:26 > 0:42:29but don't fancy taking on the cooking duties themselves.
0:42:29 > 0:42:33Delicious food is only half of a Meals on Wheels service.
0:42:33 > 0:42:36It's got to reach the old folk hot and in the hands of a friendly
0:42:36 > 0:42:40neighbour and that needs volunteer drivers.
0:42:40 > 0:42:43- ALL: Hi! - Oh, there's loads of you!
0:42:43 > 0:42:45- LAUGHTER - Are you all volunteers?- Yes.
0:42:45 > 0:42:48How long have you been delivering meals now?
0:42:48 > 0:42:52- Since January last year.- Really? - It's over a year.- Yeah.
0:42:52 > 0:42:55- Fantastic.- Brilliant.- Are you all friends and regulars at this pub?
0:42:55 > 0:42:57- Yes.- Oh, yes!
0:42:59 > 0:43:02The poor landlords got to get something in return
0:43:02 > 0:43:03for his generosity!
0:43:03 > 0:43:06I think it's important to mention how much this pub is actually doing.
0:43:06 > 0:43:10- Yes.- Yeah.- If it wasn't for the pub we wouldn't be able to...
0:43:10 > 0:43:13- to deliver in the way we do. - It just makes Dave and I very proud
0:43:13 > 0:43:17to see that you've all kind of risen to the challenge
0:43:17 > 0:43:20of Meals on Wheels and are delivering it to your communities.
0:43:20 > 0:43:23You should be very, very proud of yourselves cos we are.
0:43:23 > 0:43:27So, a big round of applause for yourselves, I think.
0:43:27 > 0:43:28Well done, Golcar.
0:43:29 > 0:43:33Isn't that fantastic.
0:43:33 > 0:43:35That's people power.
0:43:35 > 0:43:38There's a need in the community, they've risen to the challenge and
0:43:38 > 0:43:42they're doing it and they are doing it well with commitment. What more, what more
0:43:42 > 0:43:43can you ask of a community?
0:43:43 > 0:43:46And those two sisters, how wonderful of them
0:43:46 > 0:43:49for just having the neck to ask, to get it going.
0:43:49 > 0:43:51- And they've made it work.- Yeah.
0:43:51 > 0:43:56And then, hopefully, it will spread and by the time I reach my dotage...
0:43:57 > 0:43:59..I'll be having it in Newcastle.
0:43:59 > 0:44:03Wouldn't it be great being looked after by your local boozer.
0:44:03 > 0:44:05When we started the Slaithwaite Meals on Wheels two years ago
0:44:05 > 0:44:08demand was so high the Colander Girls
0:44:08 > 0:44:10had to deliver their meals far and wide.
0:44:12 > 0:44:16- Come every day.- No! Do you know what? I think we might!
0:44:18 > 0:44:22- Hello?- But with the Golcar initiative up and running all
0:44:22 > 0:44:25folk living nearer the pub can get their meals from there instead
0:44:25 > 0:44:28and that includes our dear friend, Hilda Clegg.
0:44:30 > 0:44:32Hello, Miss Clegg.
0:44:32 > 0:44:36- Oh.- Hello, I'm Dave. - Hello, Miss Clegg, I'm Si.
0:44:36 > 0:44:37Very nice to meet you.
0:44:37 > 0:44:41If you've worked in the mill you're not Miss Clegg no more, you're Hilda.
0:44:41 > 0:44:44- OK, OK.- To everybody.
0:44:44 > 0:44:47Arthritis meant Hilda was finding it hard to cook for herself.
0:44:47 > 0:44:51So, what do you do, then, for your daily meal?
0:44:51 > 0:44:53What happens to you, then?
0:44:53 > 0:44:57Well, I've been very fortunate that the lady across the road...
0:44:58 > 0:45:01..she keeps bringing me meals in.
0:45:01 > 0:45:04When you can't cook at all, it's er...
0:45:04 > 0:45:08- really nice.- Yeah.- Because I don't know what I should do.
0:45:08 > 0:45:13- It would be a matter of...these frozen ones.- Yes.
0:45:13 > 0:45:16You know, if Dave and I manage to resurrect the traditional
0:45:16 > 0:45:18Meals on Wheels service...
0:45:18 > 0:45:22would you like us to deliver you a hot meal? Maybe once a week?
0:45:22 > 0:45:25Well...after the first one I'd tell you better
0:45:25 > 0:45:28because it depends whether I like the first one, doesn't it?
0:45:28 > 0:45:30Fair enough.
0:45:30 > 0:45:33With such fine tastes we were keen to get Hilda's input
0:45:33 > 0:45:36on the inaugural Slaithwaite Meals on Wheels menu
0:45:36 > 0:45:40so we invited her onto the judging panel that picked it.
0:45:40 > 0:45:44When you taste the food just think one to ten.
0:45:44 > 0:45:46Ten for very good, one for crap.
0:45:46 > 0:45:47LAUGHTER
0:45:47 > 0:45:52- One for not very nice.- You cannae say "crap" to Hilda! That's wrong.
0:45:52 > 0:45:56And then we will be able to pick the best dessert and the best mains
0:45:56 > 0:45:58to serve on Friday.
0:45:58 > 0:46:00And when the first meal arrived...
0:46:00 > 0:46:02Lunch is served.
0:46:02 > 0:46:05..thankfully, her impeccable standards were met.
0:46:05 > 0:46:08Very friendly, the girls. The food's nice.
0:46:08 > 0:46:10- Yes.- So what more could you want?
0:46:12 > 0:46:16Now 97 and Hilda is still going strong.
0:46:16 > 0:46:19I don't like, myself, being old.
0:46:19 > 0:46:25But it does come to you and I've been lucky I've got so old.
0:46:25 > 0:46:29The meal every Wednesday is a firm fixture in Hilda's diary.
0:46:29 > 0:46:32When it's cold you need a hot meal, don't you?
0:46:32 > 0:46:34Especially in winter.
0:46:35 > 0:46:41We've had fish, we've had cottage pie and this week it was chicken.
0:46:42 > 0:46:45There's some lovely puddings, yeah.
0:46:45 > 0:46:50And sometimes there's cold ones like gateaux.
0:46:50 > 0:46:54At Christmas the ladies even delivered a hamper filled
0:46:54 > 0:46:55with seasonal treats.
0:46:55 > 0:46:58It was marvellous at Christmas.
0:46:58 > 0:47:02Er, we got a basket with...I think there were five different...
0:47:03 > 0:47:06..boxes and that in.
0:47:06 > 0:47:09Everything that was in - I've eaten them all.
0:47:10 > 0:47:13Nobody's more pleased about the spread of Meals on Wheels
0:47:13 > 0:47:15than our Hilda.
0:47:15 > 0:47:18I think it's marvellous...
0:47:18 > 0:47:22they way they've all grouped together.
0:47:22 > 0:47:24It must be good or else it wouldn't grow.
0:47:25 > 0:47:30I would congratulate Si and David.
0:47:30 > 0:47:33Because I think they've done a really good job.
0:47:35 > 0:47:38When we first took on the Meals on Wheels cause
0:47:38 > 0:47:42we were determined to succeed not just for the sake of our old folk
0:47:42 > 0:47:45but because, for us, it was deeply personal, too.
0:47:46 > 0:47:50We both grew up in homes where food and family were inseparable.
0:47:52 > 0:47:54I was raised as an only child in Barrow-in-Furness
0:47:54 > 0:47:56on the north-west coast.
0:47:56 > 0:47:59When I was eight my mam became disabled with MS
0:47:59 > 0:48:01and it fell to me to provide the family meals.
0:48:05 > 0:48:07On the opposite side of the country me
0:48:07 > 0:48:10mam was raised on a farm in the north east.
0:48:10 > 0:48:13For her, food was one of the greatest pleasures in life
0:48:13 > 0:48:17and when she fell poorly my family and I rallied round to help.
0:48:17 > 0:48:21Our time securing a brighter future for Meals on Wheels in Slaithwaite
0:48:21 > 0:48:26meant the world to us but we're not the only ones to take it to heart.
0:48:26 > 0:48:30My parents have passed away now and my parents-in-law have passed away.
0:48:30 > 0:48:33And what I get by going and seeing, you know,
0:48:33 > 0:48:39seeing them...is contact with older people who were my parents' age.
0:48:39 > 0:48:42That's what I really love about it.
0:48:42 > 0:48:43Hello...?
0:48:43 > 0:48:44Leader of the pack, Pat,
0:48:44 > 0:48:48now even delivers a weekly meal to her mum and dad.
0:48:48 > 0:48:51Mum's got Alzheimer's now and dad's nearly blind.
0:48:51 > 0:48:55So, I thought...I've been doing this for two years, and I kept saying to them,
0:48:55 > 0:48:57"Do you want Meals on Wheels?"
0:48:57 > 0:48:59"No, we can manage."
0:48:59 > 0:49:02Anyway, I actually persuaded them to start having them
0:49:02 > 0:49:04and they love 'em!
0:49:04 > 0:49:08It's the virtuous circle of volunteering at work - putting in your
0:49:08 > 0:49:11time, effort and a bit of loving can bring many personal rewards.
0:49:12 > 0:49:14It's not just the meals, is it?
0:49:14 > 0:49:16It's actually somebody coming and chatting.
0:49:16 > 0:49:19- Oh, yeah. - It's the company as well, isn't it?
0:49:19 > 0:49:23It's just that satisfaction in knowing you are helping other people.
0:49:23 > 0:49:25It's good, a good feeling.
0:49:25 > 0:49:28But, for one of the original gang, seeing the difference
0:49:28 > 0:49:31the meals could make has turned out to be life-changing.
0:49:33 > 0:49:36Local cook, Pam, was always determined to get the meals
0:49:36 > 0:49:37off the ground.
0:49:37 > 0:49:40Me grandma passed away two years ago and she was just my be all
0:49:40 > 0:49:42and end all.
0:49:42 > 0:49:45As a professional chef her skills in the kitchen were crucial to getting
0:49:45 > 0:49:47the project up and running.
0:49:47 > 0:49:49The pressure will be on you, to start with, Pam.
0:49:49 > 0:49:52It's a lot of pressure, 15 meals, isn't it.
0:49:52 > 0:49:54It's not a pressure.
0:49:54 > 0:49:57And from the moment the very first meal was delivered...
0:49:58 > 0:50:02..it was clear that, for her, caring was going to be a way of life.
0:50:02 > 0:50:04I'm getting a lot more out of it, personally,
0:50:04 > 0:50:05than I do from my own job.
0:50:07 > 0:50:10Within weeks, Pam's crucial role within Meals on Wheels was
0:50:10 > 0:50:13giving her serious food for thought.
0:50:13 > 0:50:17I didn't want to feel just like the chef in the kitchen cooking the meal.
0:50:17 > 0:50:20I wanted to be...have more of an impact on old folk.
0:50:20 > 0:50:23Meals on Wheels was an inspiration to take it further to work
0:50:23 > 0:50:25with the elderly.
0:50:25 > 0:50:28She decided to give up her job in the local wine bar to
0:50:28 > 0:50:31cook in a care home for people with dementia which meant
0:50:31 > 0:50:34she was able to spend more time with the old folk.
0:50:34 > 0:50:38So, I was doing the same as on Meals on Wheels but being able to
0:50:38 > 0:50:40interact, as well, with the elderly on a different level.
0:50:40 > 0:50:43I wanted to make a difference to them lives, them
0:50:43 > 0:50:46elderly who didn't have family visiting them.
0:50:47 > 0:50:51Convinced it was her future, Pam managed to turn her job into a
0:50:51 > 0:50:55fully-fledged qualification, studying as she worked.
0:50:55 > 0:51:00I've spent the last 12 months working in dementia, elderly care.
0:51:00 > 0:51:03And...just completed an NVQ Level 2.
0:51:04 > 0:51:06And it's been great.
0:51:06 > 0:51:08Cheffing's a thankless job and it's...
0:51:08 > 0:51:11your stuck in a kitchen 24/7 and you are only as good as your last meal.
0:51:11 > 0:51:15I made a difference working with dementia.
0:51:15 > 0:51:16It's a total change of life -
0:51:16 > 0:51:20showing how Meals on Wheels doesn't just help our old folk
0:51:20 > 0:51:23but has serious impact on the volunteers as well.
0:51:23 > 0:51:27Two years ago I could have never imagined sitting here saying to you,
0:51:27 > 0:51:31"I've just got my NVQ Level 2, in Care." Yeah.
0:51:31 > 0:51:34Working with dementia which has been fantastic.
0:51:34 > 0:51:38I feel like I should have done it a long time ago. More rewarded.
0:51:47 > 0:51:51It's been two years since we roused the Colander Girls to set up
0:51:51 > 0:51:55their very own Meals on Wheels service here in Slaithwaite.
0:51:55 > 0:51:57Now, that means that they've delivered over 100 meals
0:51:57 > 0:52:00with a smile to the old folk of Slaithwaite.
0:52:00 > 0:52:03So, we're throwing a 100 party to help
0:52:03 > 0:52:07celebrate their achievements and to give them a monster thank you.
0:52:07 > 0:52:11This Yorkshire gang are a right sociable bunch.
0:52:13 > 0:52:17And were always up for throwing a swinging Meals on Wheels social.
0:52:17 > 0:52:21It's a wonderful opportunity to get out into company.
0:52:22 > 0:52:24Serving loads of great food...
0:52:24 > 0:52:26- Who's next now?- Down there.
0:52:26 > 0:52:29First class. First class.
0:52:29 > 0:52:32All washed down with some very special entertainment.
0:52:34 > 0:52:37# I've got a lovely bunch of coconuts
0:52:37 > 0:52:40# There they are, all standing in a row... #
0:52:40 > 0:52:43Not that everybody appreciated it.
0:52:43 > 0:52:47You might be right good cooks but you can't sing!
0:52:47 > 0:52:49Hey, I wasn't singing, it was him!
0:52:52 > 0:52:55For today's celebration party we've invited everybody we've
0:52:55 > 0:52:58met on our Meals on Wheels journey in Slaithwaite.
0:52:58 > 0:53:03From the recipients like Enid and Doris, Cyril, Frank and Jack
0:53:03 > 0:53:06and not forgetting our dear old Hilda.
0:53:06 > 0:53:10To the vital local supporters like Niall and Jackie from the dairy farm
0:53:10 > 0:53:14and Lindsay who runs the Marsden Meet and Eat group.
0:53:14 > 0:53:16And, of course, the stars of the show,
0:53:16 > 0:53:20the volunteers who make it all possible every week.
0:53:20 > 0:53:22Feel the pressure now, feel the pressure.
0:53:22 > 0:53:23SCREAMING
0:53:23 > 0:53:26There's plenty to celebrate...
0:53:26 > 0:53:28from the team's continued success...
0:53:28 > 0:53:30to the expansion across the valley
0:53:30 > 0:53:32and it's all down to them.
0:53:32 > 0:53:35Charge your glasses, ladies and gentlemen, for a toast, Dave.
0:53:35 > 0:53:38Yeah we'd like to raise a glass to Meals on Wheels.
0:53:38 > 0:53:41We'd also like to remember absent friends - Mrs Clay,
0:53:41 > 0:53:42to Christine Clay.
0:53:42 > 0:53:46And here's to 100 more deliveries, as well.
0:53:46 > 0:53:48ALL: CHEERS!
0:53:48 > 0:53:50CHEERING
0:53:50 > 0:53:51The Colander Girls!
0:53:51 > 0:53:53CHEERING
0:53:53 > 0:53:57BAND PLAYS: "In The Mood" By Glenn Miller
0:53:57 > 0:54:01No Meals on Wheels gathering would be complete without some slap-up
0:54:01 > 0:54:02food, so, true to form,
0:54:02 > 0:54:06the kitchen volunteers have risen to the challenge.
0:54:06 > 0:54:09Pudding maestro Claire has made some tasty cup-cake treats.
0:54:11 > 0:54:13And, in tribute to Christine Clay,
0:54:13 > 0:54:17we're serving her favourite meal, hake, prepared by new volunteer,
0:54:17 > 0:54:20Binny, along with some delicious local bread and butter.
0:54:20 > 0:54:23I'll stick that in the middle and job's a good 'un, you can
0:54:23 > 0:54:24all have a nibble.
0:54:25 > 0:54:27Home-made tartare sauce.
0:54:29 > 0:54:34- That's what I came here for.- What? - I love tartare sauce.- Have a dip.
0:54:34 > 0:54:36That's very nice.
0:54:37 > 0:54:38With everybody tucking in,
0:54:38 > 0:54:42it seems you're never too old to dance the afternoon away.
0:54:48 > 0:54:52We've loved our time in Slaithwaite and we couldn't have achieved
0:54:52 > 0:54:57a thing without the incredible volunteers who've been at our side.
0:54:58 > 0:55:02Well, what can we say? It's two years since we were here...
0:55:02 > 0:55:05but, it's amazing, not only are things carrying on
0:55:05 > 0:55:08but you've proved us wrong, any doubts we had.
0:55:08 > 0:55:11And it's blooming great, we're just full of awe and admiration.
0:55:11 > 0:55:15- Thank you!- You're welcome!
0:55:15 > 0:55:16We're not worthy!
0:55:17 > 0:55:20I just want to say thank you very much for coming here to start
0:55:20 > 0:55:23the project off for us and then coming back to check we're OK.
0:55:23 > 0:55:25We much appreciate it. Thanks.
0:55:25 > 0:55:27I think we should have a group hug, are you ready?
0:55:27 > 0:55:28ALL: YEAH!
0:55:28 > 0:55:30Come on! All in...
0:55:30 > 0:55:31Come on!
0:55:33 > 0:55:34I enjoyed every minute of it. Haven't we?
0:55:34 > 0:55:39- What?- We've enjoyed every minute of it.- We have, yeah.
0:55:39 > 0:55:41I think it's extraordinary, you know.
0:55:41 > 0:55:43This has been a television programme but it's been so much more,
0:55:43 > 0:55:45to us.
0:55:45 > 0:55:48We've got to know the elderly folk, we've got to know
0:55:48 > 0:55:50all the contributors and it has produced something that's
0:55:50 > 0:55:53really magic and it's produced something that's really lasting.
0:55:53 > 0:55:57There was a need - they've acted upon the need - they've continued to
0:55:57 > 0:56:01do it with continuity, commitment and with time - great food...
0:56:02 > 0:56:04..with a laugh and a smile.
0:56:07 > 0:56:10When we first came to Slaithwaite traditional Meals on Wheels
0:56:10 > 0:56:12had ceased to exist.
0:56:14 > 0:56:17But with some initiative and will power,
0:56:17 > 0:56:19together with our trusty volunteers...
0:56:19 > 0:56:20Hello, Cyril.
0:56:20 > 0:56:23..we built something totally new from scratch.
0:56:23 > 0:56:25Oh, eck!
0:56:25 > 0:56:28Two years on and it's taken on a life of its own.
0:56:28 > 0:56:30Spreading to local villages...
0:56:30 > 0:56:32How you doing?
0:56:32 > 0:56:33There's loads of you!
0:56:35 > 0:56:38..and becoming a cornerstone of the community.
0:56:38 > 0:56:40Lunch is served.
0:56:40 > 0:56:43It isn't so hard and it only takes a little bit of time
0:56:43 > 0:56:46but it makes a huge difference.
0:56:46 > 0:56:48There's still plenty of places in the UK that don't have any
0:56:48 > 0:56:52Meals on Wheels, so, what are you waiting for?
0:56:53 > 0:56:57I hope that, you know, more people will do it across the country,
0:56:57 > 0:56:58I really do.
0:56:58 > 0:57:02It's do-able. You just get your act together and get it done, don't you?
0:57:02 > 0:57:06Get off your sofa! Grab your friends and give it a go!
0:57:06 > 0:57:08Come on, guys! Yeah!!
0:57:08 > 0:57:09For the sake of the grans
0:57:09 > 0:57:13and granddads in your very own town, city or village.
0:57:13 > 0:57:18Just try and do it. Once you start, there'll be no stopping you.
0:57:18 > 0:57:23Who knows? YOU might even get something out of it too.
0:57:23 > 0:57:25Oh, that were nice!
0:57:25 > 0:57:27Our older people deserve it.
0:57:27 > 0:57:29End of...
0:57:33 > 0:57:36Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd