FORMER Warrington Wolves forward James Laithwaite is helping to feed vulnerable residents and NHS staff during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Wire academy graduate set up clean-eating business Fuel Hub, an online service delivering healthy ready meals to customers’ doors, last year with his partner Michelle McDowall.

Warrington Guardian:

Now the pair have started a similar project, offering hearty foods such as roast dinners and hotpots, in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Launched last week, Home Chef Direct is intended to help those who are stuck in their homes at the present time - with discounts available for NHS staff.

Warrington Guardian:

All meals arrive fresh and can be kept in the fridge for up to four days, or to freeze for three months – and are ready to eat in three minutes.

Second rower Laithwaite, who made 50 appearances for the club between 2013 and 2015, said: “Me and Michelle have been working around the clock to create our new business.

“It is similar to fuel hub, but with more of a traditional menu – such as roast dinners, hotpot, gammon, soups and desserts.

“We deliver directly to customers’ doors nationwide.

“It’s been great, we launched on Monday and it’s been busy – so far most of the customers have been over 60s, so we are helping them out massively.”

The 15 per cent NHS discount is also available on Fuel Hub products.