ACTING troupe the New Hardy Players has made donations of £2,000 each to Dorchester Foodbank and Dorchester Poverty Action to help people struggling in the coronavirus crisis.

Chairman Andy Worth said: "This is in accord with our aim to support our local community and the amount reflects the level of need caused by the situation that we are all living through."

Mr Worth said the committee will be asked to double its 2020 annual donations to the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust and to Julia's House.

He added: "Both our treasurer and myself are very happy to recommend this in support of the wider community in Dorset.

"My sincere thanks go to those who made suggestions and gave advice, those who approved the donations, and to you for the support, hard work, and dedication that has made our funds so healthy and available to those in need."