HUNDREDS of supportive messages have been sent to an Upton man, who was feeling lonely in lockdown, after his family called on the public to spread some happiness.

Edwin Hardman, commonly known in Upton as "Eddie", is a popular figure in the town and often seen with his Springer Spaniel, Billy. 

After his family noticed he was feeling isolated during the lockdown his niece, Amy, decided to do something to get him back in touch with the local community.

She said: "Eddie is an extrovert and socialising is vital for his well-being. 

"I considered making a Facebook post in the first lockdown to get Edwin socialising digitally, but my family weren't sure what the reaction was going to be."

This time however, Amy decided to go ahead with it, setting up a "Messages for Eddie" Facebook page and asking the public to send in their best wishes.

Miss Hardman expected a few locals, who know Eddie, to send messages but nothing like the response they had.

Within 12 hours they had received over 200 messages, and currently over 500, from as far away as Bangkok: all trying to help spread some cheer.

Miss Hardman added: "We've had messages from people in Wales and the North of the UK who have visited Upton and remember Edwin’s smiling face and cheer.

“The community response has been wonderful to see. The messages are heart-warming; many thanking Edwin for lifting their spirits on their way to work and on the school run. 

"I thank everyone who contributed. Edwin is delighted with the response!”

She added it was massively important to spread a positive story during difficult times in lockdown, with isolation and loneliness being key concerns.

To see some of the messages and to find out more about the campaign, go to www.facebook.com/messagestoeddie