WILTSHIRE MPs have praised the local community response to the COVID-19 coronavirus health crisis.

Dr Andrew Murrison, the MP for South West Wiltshire, said: “The vast majority of people locally are taking the pandemic very seriously and looking out for each other. We’re seeing the best of people.

“Complying with expert advice isn’t optional, it’s our duty. We owe responsible behaviour as citizens to ourselves, the elderly, ill and vulnerable and, crucially, to our precious, vital NHS.”

Michelle Donelan, the MP for Chippenham, said: "I have been overwhelmed with emails last week and this weekend from constituents and businesses with offers of help, which I think is testament to the hard-working community-minded constituency we are lucky to live in.

"That said, those who need the most help are often the last to ask and I am determined to make sure those people have the help they need and link those people up with others locally who can provide that help. "Overall I think everyone is trying to adhere to Government guidance to the best of their ability but I must remind everyone to be considerate and that the advice to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.

"The Government have developed their response in line with expert medical and scientific guidance, it is essential we adhere to this and not our interpretations. "Businesses across the constituency, I know will be feeling the effects of a sharp decline in trade and consumer spending in the town.

"I want to give you my assurance that you will not face this challenge alone and I am fighting your corner every step of the way.

"The Chancellor has unleashed an unprecedented support package for businesses and employees which will provide a lifejacket to businesses locally.

"I have been working closely with local businesses that are struggling to make sure they get access to all of the support available and I am currently working hard and liaising with Ministers to make sure the self-employed get access to the support they need too, more help is being announced this week and I urge any who are worried to contact me.

"We are facing an unprecedented challenge as a constituency, a country and as fellow human beings across the world. Now is the time to come together and make sure we adhere to Government advise, urge others to do the same and look out for those in our society most impacted by the social distancing practices we are being asked to follow.

"My website and Facebook will be kept up to date with local mutual aid efforts and my office remains open for business while my staff work from home."

"Please contact me at any time, I will continue to help the residents of Chippenham in any way I can.

Email: Michelle.donelan.mp@parliament.uk or call: 01249714465