MEALS on wheels services are still going strong, even if they have changed from their original purpose.

They began in London during the Blitz, when families bombed out of their homes had no way to cook a meal.

The Women's Volunteer Service took up the challenge to feed those in need, with operations later developing to focus on the elderly who were housebound or unable to cook for themselves.

Other similar types of service also offered the same service, and teams of two volunteers picked up the meals from a central point, such as a school canteen, to deliver to those on their round.

Miss MC Shaw's van, above, with its secure containers would be the envy of those who used their own cars - and had to clean the boot after the custard container tipped up.