A MUIRKIRK woman has been doing exceptional work as a support worker while delivering food parcels and being on call for locals in need of assistance during the coronavirus pandemic.

Judith Linton has been helping the local community by making deliveries and helping with other essentials, but has also been a rock to Hazel Elder and her son, Mason, who has autism.

Mason needs daily routine, something which has proved difficult with schools closing, but Judith has visited the Cumnock Academy pupil three times a week during lockdown to do fun activities such as painting, gardening and even helping him to redecorate his room.

Judith said: “Some days have been exhausting trying to fit everything in. I’d be in the house then I’d get a phone call about things you wouldn’t think were an issue until people are in self-isolation, like an elderly person with a new mobile. I’d be teaching them how to work it through the window.

“We also set up a COVID-19 resilience team of volunteers for the village. It’s been a challenge but very worthwhile.

“Mason and I have had to be creative in lockdown so we’ve been gardening, cooking and redecorating his entire room. He’s coped surprisingly well considering the change of routine.”

Mason’s mum says Judith has been a huge help to her family and has given her much needed time to herself.

Hazel said: “Judith’s got duties on the Community Council and the Muirkirk Enterprise group so she’s been litter-picking and keeping on top of fly-tipping all while having her own life and helping Mason.

“They’ve been doing gardening because he done that at Dumfries House, baking since he’s missing Home Economics at school and they’ve redecorated his room. They picked out a carpet, painted and built the wardrobes and chest of drawers.”

“Keeping him in routine is the biggest thing, that’s why support is put in place. I’m a single parent and I can never get out but he got to know Judith so she took on the role as his support worker.

“It gives me a break to see my pals, go to the pictures and have time to myself.

“Judith and Mason have a great rapport and are on the same wave length when it comes to politics and current affairs.

“She could’ve said no, I’m not working with Mason during this. But she has helped him so much.”

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