Coronavirus: Wigan butchers showing "Blitz spirit"

England and Sons Butchers in Pemberton is doing its bit to help during a time of national crisis by offering a home delivery service for its most vulnerable customers.

The service, which will run from Tuesdays to Saturdays, has been introduced after the government told over-70s and vulnerable people to stay at home for 12 weeks from this weekend.

Owner Spencer England said: “We will drive out free of charge to people’s doorsteps in the Wigan area. We’re obviously sanitising ourselves and using hygienic bags, so there will be no risk of infecting anyone.

“This service will continue to run free of week while it is needed. We are always here to help no matter how big or small. We just hope everyone is safe and well.”

Mr England said that the butchers had seen a rise in sales amid fears over the coronavirus.

He said: “There has been a lot of panic buying in supermarkets and we have had people who have bought a little more which has helped our sales. From a supply side, we’re absolutely fine but we know there will be people worried about going out or of food shortage because of this.

“We have a lot of elderly customers who use the butchers and the least we can do is repay their loyalty to us over the years. We did this with rationing during the Second World War and need to show that same Blitz spirit again.”

But England’s isn’t the only local business which is reaching out to customers and those in need.

Italian restaurant The Olive Garden in Standish has turned to offering home deliveries.

l If you are a business now taking your services to the customer, let us know on 01942 506271 or at [email protected] and we will publicise it too.