A BUTCHERS has received praise for going above and beyond for customers to ensure they are kept supplied throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

J H and J Fox Butchers based on High Street, Wigton have been working extended hours since lockdown started to ensure customers are kept topped up with food.

Joanna Satterthwaite's father, Colin works for the business and has been leaving the family home at 6am, not returning until midnight most days.

Joanna explained: "They are doing what they normally do, they have a mobile van that goes out delivering to our older generation.

"However, the demand has gone crazy.

"They go out a six in the morning and are not back until midnight Monday to Friday just trying to get everyone fed and get everyone the supplies they need and they are now delivering to places they never used to."

In particular, they are helping vulnerable people and making sure everyone has essentials they may need.

"They are delivering left, right and centre to people ringing up," continued Joanna.

"It's people that don't normally shop with us too and they are working extra hard for people."

Staff at the store have noticed demand has increased since lockdown started.

Demand was high before hand when coronavirus first started but it has certainly increased.

Joanna said: "The mobile shop has to be replenished three to four times a day now rather than just once.

"We've had to ask extra staff to come into work because it's so hectic at the moment."

Joanna's dad Colin and his colleague David are both 61 and she is amazed by the way they've stepped up to help members of the community during this time.

"He's no spring chicken, he's older and near retiring age, he's tired out," added Joanna.

"But he’s had a lot of people supporting him saying how well they are doing, how great they are doing, how brilliant the deliveries are for people.

"It's delivering to people who cannot get out and don’t want to go out. Most of the vulnerable people and old and those who cannot get out.

"Without this service we wonder how some people would get any food. Some people might not have family and this is a lifeline for them.

"They are working all hours they can to give what people need."