THE mayor of Ellesmere, Councillor Paul Golbourne, has encouraged people to support one another through the latest national lockdown.

England entered a national lockdown in the first week of January, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson suggesting it will last until at least mid-February.

Cllr Golbourne says everyone has their 'part to play' in tackling lockdown for a third time and has relaunched the town council Covid support group.

"The news of a third lockdown for England, will be an unwelcome announcement for many, but I think we all expected it," said Cllr Golbourne.

"Now we all have our part to play in reducing the spread of the virus and protecting the NHS.

"I know that many of you are frightened of catching the virus and at the same time are craving contact with your friends.

"As a community, we must continue to support our friends, families, and neighbours, especially looking out for people who live alone, as we have all done before.

"Although the infection rate in Shropshire is lower than the national average, it is rising every day so we to we should not be complacent, but it can give us some reassurance.

"I think it is very important to support our local businesses whenever we can, as they supported us during the first lockdown changing their modus operandi to help the vulnerable.

"The Town Council has reactivated the community volunteers we set up before the first lockdown, we are lucky enough to still have a bank of registered volunteers to help in the community and unfortunately due to the speed the restrictions are coming into force will be unable to register anymore.

"The community volunteers will collect prescriptions and click and collect groceries or carry out.

"If you know anyone in the Community that needs our help, please just give them our contact details

"But the most important thing is for you all to keep safe and look after each other."

To contact the Covid support group, call 01691 596290, 01691 622188 or 01691 622689.