PEOPLE are "panicking" about cuts to the council's meals on wheels service which could come into effect next year, according to delivery drivers.

Council staff who deliver meals at lunchtime to hundreds of residents across the borough have warned of the detrimental impact axing the community meals service could have.

But adult services executive Andy Morgan has given assurances that no one will be left without an alternative service.

This comes after the town hall announced this week that it might scrap its in-house meals on wheels operation.

The move, which could see food bills increase by more than a third for some, is currently undergoing a consultation.

Gill Hurst, who delivers hot dinners three days a week, told The Bolton News that the drivers are often the only people the service users see.

She said: “Most of them don’t have any family. We go in and deliver the meals, plate them up and make sure they are always really hot. It’s more than just meals on wheels. We are the first line of response if they are ill. Sometimes we find them on the floor. If they are getting one delivery a month, who’s going to check on them?"

Currently, the council delivers hot meals and puddings at lunchtime to around 300 people across the borough, each paying £4.59 per meal.

Private providers in Greater Manchester charge £6.60 for the same home delivery service and frozen meals can be delivered from as little as £3.

But Mrs Hurst said most users would not be able to reheat frozen meals due to their physical or mental impairments.

The move, which would save the council £300,000 per year would lead to at least 10 job losses and nearly 200 hours less of work per week. Mrs Hurst, an employee of 13 years, is set to have her hours cut by half.

Cabinet member Cllr Morgan said he "completely understands" that some people are worried about the proposals.

He said: “Consultation is underway with both service users and staff and no final decision will be taken without a thorough assessment of how everyone will be affected. Should the changes go ahead, people would continue to be supported to make sure they can live at home independently."