MP Victoria Atkins urges public to ‘support our high streets’

Some businesses have been open throughout the pandemic - offering a vital service to rural communities.

Others have reopened since guidelines for non-essential businesses were lifted last month.

Now, others - including many in the hospitality industry - are making plans to open up again after July 4.

Posting on her Facebook page, Ms Atkins said: “So many of our businesses have been working to open.

“Please, support our high streets and shop local.”

Ms Atkins made her comments after a walkabout in Woodhall Spa, which relies heavily on income from tourism.

Ms Atkins added: “Businesses in Woodhall Spa have gone to great lengths to introduce social distancing and safety measures whilst maintaining the personal shopping experience the area is renowned for.

“It was great to see so many people visiting our beloved local shops, including ‘Britain’s Smallest Shoe Shop’ (Peter Scott Shoes) which had its busiest Monday morning of trading in decades when it re-opened!”

Ms Atkins posed for photographers outside a number of shops in Woodhall - while maintaining strict social distancing.

In response, many people thanked the MP for her support in messages on Facebook.

Andrew Rawnsley said: “I must say Vicky, your support for local business is very welcome.

“You may take advantage of your position at times, but you still try to do good as well.

“Well done! Now go and do more for the people that need help and prove that Tories aren’t all about the money.”

In another post, Tracey Ramsden said: “Wonderful to see you out and about in Woodhall Spa and supporting our local shops and facilities.

“We are very blessed to have such choice on our doorstep,and shopping local should be a mantra for us all as we come through this pandemic.

“But please, could I ask you to support our Jubilee Park pool.

“Jubilee (Park) now has new outdoor changing facilities and staff are being trained in readiness.

“As the camping and caravan parks will be able to open, the loss in income could have a massive effect on the future of the facility.”

Meanwhile, Ms Atkins has welcomed further easing of restrictions which means pubs and restaurants will be allowed to open from this Saturday.

However, in a message to owners - and customers, she said: “Please, remember to follow the guidance - keep your distance.”