BARROW council leader Ann Thomson has saluted the community for rallying together to meet the challenges of coronavirus.

Cllr Thomson, who is also leader of the Labour Group on Barrow council said: “The overwhelming majority of local people have been magnificent in sticking to the regulations and guidance of the lockdown and other restrictions that have necessarily been imposed.

“On behalf of the council I would again like to thank all key workers, NHS staff and those providing essential services for all the efforts they have made, often beyond the call of duty.

“It has been very difficult for many in our community and we will have to continue making sacrifices as the virus has not gone away and presents an ongoing dangerous threat to everyone.

“The easing of some restrictions have allowed people to enjoy going into pubs, restaurants and shops again in a limited way and I would like to thank all proprietors, licensees and staff for generally sticking to the government regulations. The majority of the public have enjoyed these facilities responsibly too.

“This council will continue to work alongside owners of licensed premises to help them with government guidance to keep their customers safe.

“Together we can defeat the virus but only if everyone adheres to the government regulations on social distancing and the use of pubs, restaurants, shops, gyms and other facilities. This virus is still among us and it is vital we do not allow it to remain and put at risk the lives of our most vulnerable.”