THE coronavirus outbreak has caused a level of uncertainty almost unprecedented in Warrington in recent times – and at this moment, your town needs you.

It is understood the borough has a second confirmed case of covid-19, with the newly-confirmed patient currently being treated at Warrington Hospital.

This comes after the first coronavirus case in Warrington was reported on Wednesday last week, the affected person having recently returned from Italy.

Though the number of confirmed cases in the town is thankfully still low, Warrington has undoubtedly felt the impact of the outbreak already.

Perhaps most concerning is the impact on our town’s shops, pubs, restaurants and bars – who are undoubtedly going to be heavily hit in the wallet.

Many have shut their doors for the moment, but plenty more are currently still open for business because the livelihoods of their owners and staff depend on this.

And we are calling on you to continue to support your local businesses in their hour of need.

Warrington Guardian editor Hayley Smith said: “Our town is fortunate to have an abundance of independent businesses, from corner shops and takeaways all the way through to boutique stores and renowned restaurants.

“The coronavirus outbreak will leave many of these with real cashflow problems, threatening their very existence.

“At this time, it is vital that we do all that we can to support the people and places that really make Warrington what it is.

“While we know that it is often necessary for you to use big supermarket chains, your trade is of much greater value to local businesses.

“If you can, please think of them and help to keep our town’s economy prosperous.

“We’re sure that you will not be disappointed with what you receive in return.”

Just as vital is the need to look out for your neighbours during the coronavirus crisis. Communities across the town have already done us proud, uniting to help the most vulnerable while they are in need.

Lynsay Gould is one resident who is doing her bit, having launched a Facebook group to support elderly and vulnerable people in Sankey and Penketh.

Members are now leafleting in the area to offer their services, from picking up prescriptions to doing a bit of shopping.

She said: “I set up the group as I saw so many people panic buying and thought that the elderly and vulnerable would struggle to get the necessities they need.

“This includes the financially vulnerable, who may have been laid off or not receiving pay. “I’m overjoyed at the support from people in Great Sankey and Penketh.”

Hayley added: “Lynsay is a fantastic example of what makes Warrington great – its people.

“And she is one of dozens, if not hundreds, of residents who have already stepped up to help.

“We want you, our readers, to be mindful that there will be people living on your street who may not be able to leave their own homes for some time.

“They might not necessarily have relatives who can step in to collect their groceries or medication, so they may be relying on you.

“If you are fit and well, please do check on vulnerable people in your community and offer them your services.

“It might only cost an hour of your time, but it will mean the world to them in these incredibly testing times.”