Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the north of England’s gas distributor, came to the rescue of Barrock Court Care Home in Carlisle yesterday (Thursday 1 March).

Members of staff, based at NGN’s Carlisle depot, were unable to carry out pipe replacement work because of the snow that struck the UK so they picked up their shovels and set about helping the local community.

Staff and visitors were unable to access Barrock Court Care Home in Low Heskett due to the amount of snow that had fallen overnight, so NGN staff set to work clearing snow so that everyone could get in there safely.

Alan Shepherd, Maintenance Manager at Barrock Court Care Home, said: “We were really struggling to get on top of it until these guys showed up. It’s been a hard few day and Northern Gas Networks help has been very much appreciated. Thank you guys!”

The team also helped neighbours clear the snow from their properties and their hard work didn’t go unnoticed.

A resident via Facebook, said: “My 87-year-old neighbour went to hairdressers yesterday and two young lads from Northern Gas Networks were clearing the road. They ran up to the car, that was dropping her off, one carried her shopping bag and the other helped her to the door. It made her day, and mine.”

Matty McBride, Business Operational Leader for Northern Gas Networks, said: “The efforts from the team, based in Carlisle, has been fantastic and I’m proud of every one of them and the lengths that they have gone to.

“We pride ourselves on helping people, young and old, in the community and this is just some of the efforts we go to try and help the vulnerable.

“I’d also like to thank local residents for their kind comments. The current weather is proving very treacherous for everyone and it’s wonderful to see how people are rallying together and showing great community spirit.”

For further information about the project please contact NGN’s Customer Care Team on 0800 040 7766 or email: customercare@northerngas.co.uk.

Anyone that smells gas or suspects carbon monoxide should call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999. This line is in operation 24-hours a day, seven days a week.