BUSINESSES, residents and councillors in Whitchurch have all shared their concerns over the news that the country has entered lockdown for the third time – but called for people to recapture the community spirit that saw us through previous restrictions.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Monday evening that England would be entering a six-week national lockdown until mid-February.

The news has been met with dismay for many, with the negative impact on businesses and people’s mental health being highlighted.

Sharron Marriott from ‘Make Your House a Home’ said she was ‘fed up and frustrated’ at the thought of going into lockdown again and offered her sympathies to new businesses.

“I’m very frustrated,” said Sharron. “Obviously I expected another lockdown, it’s just frustrating.

“As a business owner you just want to be trading. Obviously you understand the reasons and want to keep people safe.

“I’m fortunate that in the time I’ve had the shop I’ve grown a good social media following with Instagram and Facebook and I’ve got the website and I offer click-and-collect and local deliver to help out.

“But there’s a fine line between lockdown and going out of business.

“I feel really sorry for some of the new shops open this year, they have probably spent more time under lockdown than out.”

Meanwhile Shropshire councillor and Whitchurch resident Peggy Mullock says she is concerned the impact a third lockdown will have on people’s mental health.

She said: “While I appreciate lockdown has to happen for the health of the country, I am concerned about the mental health of people living on their own.

“I would urge everyone in town if you have a neighbour or friend on their own to give them a call or a knock on their window and make sure they’re alright.”

“Five minutes a day would make a world of difference to people.”

Mayor of Whitchurch, councillor Bev Duffy, has shared a message of resilience for the town’s businesses and has encourage people to look out for one another as done previously.

“The news of a third lockdown for England, may be an unwelcome announcement for many, but we all have our part to play in reducing the spread of the virus and protecting our wonderful NHS,” said cllr Duffy.

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

“The infection rate in Whitchurch and Shropshire is lower than the national average, which doesn’t mean to we should be complacent, but can give us some reassurance.

“It is important to support our local businesses whenever we can.

“Perhaps consider using click and collect or ordering food from a local establishment to enjoy at home.

“This will help to keep our high street going both now and in the future.

“The most important thing is to keep safe and look after each other.”