We still need to support local businesses | MP Alan Mak

In total, more than £160 billion has been provided as part of the government’s economic response to coronavirus. That includes in the Havant constituency 12,100 people who had their job protected through the Job Retention Scheme, grants worth £13.7 million given to self-employed people and £16.2 million worth of small business grants being provided to 1,300 local businesses.

Shop owners such as Colin Telford, who runs the Hayling Island Bookshop with his wife, speaks for many when he described the government-funded small business grant he received as a ‘lifeline’.

During August, I visited many of the businesses that took part in the Eat Out to Help Out scheme, such as Boswells Café in the Meridian Centre. Across the constituency 43 cafes, pubs and restaurants took part with more than 23,000 meals and £101,000 worth of discounts being claimed.

While the months ahead might not be easy, and we all need to continue to help prevent the spread of the virus, I hope residents can continue to support and use our local shops and businesses.

I was also honoured to receive a nomination for two prestigious Parliamentary awards: People’s Choice Award selected by public vote, and the Best Conservative MP Award. My nominations come after I launched a volunteer network to help vulnerable and isolated residents during lockdown. Thank you to everyone that nominated me but I want to recognise everyone who played a part in supporting the community during lockdown.

That’s why I have launched my Coronavirus Community Hero Awards in partnership with Hampshire Police, Queen Alexandra Hospital, South Central Ambulance Service and Age UK. The awards will highlight those who helped others in the community during the current outbreak, especially during lockdown.