MP joins in praise of Covid-19 heroes - young and old

Ms Atkins revealed her constituency office had been inundated with requests for help and advice about a raft of issues from benefits to furloughing.

However, she also piled the praise on the many individuals and organisations who had ‘made a huge difference’.

She said: “I have spent a good deal of the lockdown locally and some of the stories I’ve heard and read have been amazing.

“The work and commitment of frontline staff - like the NHS - has been remarkable.

“There have been the retailers who have stayed open - and made vital deliveries.

“There’s all the volunteers and charities who have played such an important role.

“The way everyone has responded to the many challenges has been inspirational and proves East Lindsey has that special togetherness - and community spirit.

“People really do care and that has shone through.”

Ms Atkins added she was particularly impressed by the efforts of youngsters - like seven-year-old Eva Barton, who recently cycled 100 miles to raise money for NHS charities.

Ms Atkins said: “I read about Eva and what an amazing little girl - and an amazing effort.

“She has raised a huge amount of money and her parents must be proud of her.”

Eva, who lives in Horncastle, was inspired by the now legendary Captain Tom Moore.

Ms Atkins revealed her own son (eight) had also been inspired by Captain Tom and was raising funds for LIVES - the Horncastle based charity - by walking around the family garden.

The MP also went on to thank voluntary organisations and said that she hoped their ‘sterling efforts’ would continue.

She added: “There are so many (organisations).

“I know the Horncastle and Woodhall Spa scrub group has been particularly successful.

“We have the volunteers who have been shopping for their neighbours - or collecting prescriptions.

“We know how difficult it is for charities, but they have been absolutely wonderful.”

Horncastle Mayor Coun Fiona Martin has urged volunteers to carry on their ‘amazing work’ - even though the signs suggest the impact of coronavirus is decreasing.

Coun Martin has regularly praised the efforts of individuals, organisations and charities during lockdown.

Speaking at last week’s ‘virtual’ town council meeting, Coun Martin revealed: “I want to say a big thank you to everyone who, in whatever capacity, has helped during the Covid crisis.

“When this is all over - and I must say all the signs are starting to look more promising - the people of this town will be grateful to everyone who has helped.”

Coun Martin said the town council was still receiving daily requests for help and advice,

She added: “People are still doing so much for others and while the situation is improving, we need everyone to carry on.

“The recovery is going to take some time before we are back to anything like normal.”

The Rev Charles Patrick, vicar of Horncastle, also heaped praise on a ‘truly wonderful community’, adding volunteers had made a huge difference.