A 40 foot double decker bus covered in knitted items is travelling around the streets of South Cumbria later this week to support over 65s who are isolating due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The bus, which is being organised by The People's Friend, has been donated by Stagecoach, and the tour sims to remind over 65s that the nation is thinking about them at this difficult time.

Between 10am and 3pm on Thuesday, it will go around areas of Kendal, Bowness and Ambleside, touring care homes and residential streets, dropping off magazines and raising money for Re-engage, a befriending service for the elderly

It has been organised following the clamp down in care home visitations which has seen an increase in loneliness amongst this age group.

Working with crochet designer and urban knitter, Emma Leith, the bus will be fully covered with knitting, and the design includes friendly crocheted faces, delightful pom poms and brightly coloured squares.

Knitters across the UK have been sending in donations as messages of support which will also adorn the bus.

The bus is hoping to raise funds for loneliness charity Re-engage.