INNOVATIVE businesses have been hailed for both ‘steering their own ship’ and supporting communities throughout the disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The Warrington Guardian is currently running its second Back Our Businesses campaign, supported by the council, as we bid to support companies that have battled to survive amid Covid-19.

Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, the council’s cabinet member for public health, said: “We are looking forward to an exciting and successful build up to Christmas in Warrington town centre.

“Our priority is to ensure our town centre continues to thrive at this time of year, while crucially keeping people safe. Residents must remember that this isn’t the time to be complacent, it is now the time to be doing all we can to reduce the spread of infection.

“Everyone can play their part in lowering coronavirus transmission in the run up to Christmas, by taking measures such as making sure to keep washing your hands and taking regular symptom-free Covid tests, including before heading out to events or seeing vulnerable people.

“Please wear a face covering in shops and on public transport unless exempt, and consider wearing one in other enclosed settings or busy areas, as this will also help to stop the spread of the virus. If you need to stock up on symptom-free tests, you can visit the Golden Square test site to pick up a box of home test kits.

“With these measures in place over the festive period, combined with people taking up the vaccine and boosters, we are hopeful the worst of the pandemic is behind us, so please keep coming forward to get vaccinated if you haven’t already.”

Meanwhile, Cllr Tom Jennings, cabinet member for economic development and innovation, says he is not surprised at all at how quickly the economy is recovering.

He said: “This is what Warrington does, it bounces back. We have overcome terrorism and recession in the past. We’ve bounced back from lockdowns and restrictions each time, and are facing up to our responsibility to tackle climate change.

“But we can do so much more to unlock opportunity and the untapped potential of this town through stronger partnerships between the Council, our communities and businesses.”

Cllr Jennings also took the opportunity to praise companies for their efforts during the pandemic.

He added: “There is an unfair stigma that business owners are only ‘in it for themselves’ but through this pandemic, we’ve seen them not only steer their own ship but also step in to support our communities through lockdowns, flooding and tackling food poverty.

“Whether born here or drawn here, our business community always steps up for Warrington.

“They’re not only fuelling our economy – they’re innovating, they’re giving people opportunity, they’re helping people learn and are facilitating the cultural change this town needs through a thriving local economy.

“That’s why I’m committed to making this council the most pro-business local authority it can be.

“The last two years have been incredibly tough for everyone. Seeing good businesses in our hometown close has been heart-wrenchingly sad.

“But at the same time, it’s been inspirational to see how many business owners have adapted to the new climate and created new, Covid-resilient ways, to stay afloat and keep their staff in work and safe – all while under incredible personal stresses themselves.”