Doncaster Rovers ace talks emotional experience of delivering food hampers in the community

Anderson was part of a group of Rovers players - along with some from the Dons and Belles - who delivered hampers to residents in conjunction with sponsors LNER as part of Club Doncaster Foundation’s Tackling Loneliness project.

And the centre half was moved by the experience.

“It was really emotional,” he told the Free Press.

“To see at the first house we went to how happy the gent was and the smile on his face, it was brilliant.

“It did make you emotional.

“You look and think it’s just me, Tom Anderson, I’m nothing special. But when me and Tayls went over, he was so happy to see us.

“It gives us a lift as well that we can have that effect on someone. It showed that, yeah we are footballers but we can help people off the pitch as well.

“It can make a massive difference to people and help them get through difficult times.

The scheme targeted individuals who are shielding during the Covid-19 pandemic and who have been unable to meet with friends and family.

Organisation Bidfood sourced the contents of the hampers with LNER covering the costs.

Members of the Rovers squad, including Joe Wright and Brad Halliday, undertook the deliveries after training in the build-up to Christmas.

“It was brilliant,” Anderson said.

“Me and Jon Taylor really enjoyed doing it.

“Tayls is a great lad and he does a lot of work off the field.

“It’s a massive help for everybody, especially with everything going on at the minute.

“I think it’s important we all stick together because it’s a very difficult, very different time.

“If we do all stick together then we can all get through it, and be there for each other.

“It’s massive sometimes just to have someone to talk to and to be there, it can be a massive help.

“It’s massive for everyone involved.”

The club are hoping to continue to combat loneliness in the community into the new year.

*

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.