As businesses reopen a Copeland group will be supported them as it has throughout the pandemic.

Whitehaven town councillor Gemma Dinsdale said she did not realise the impact a simple idea would have.

“Right at the beginning of the lockdown small businesses were worried. They were not sure what they were doing or how they would manage.”

She created a social media page Small Businesses in Copeland.

The site took off. Not only were businesses able to advertise that they were still open or offering online or delivery services but they also began pointing customers in the direction of other businesses offering the same services.

The group then grew to including small businesses from outside the area operating in Copeland.

"In the end we sere able to offer support and even help with mental health issues for those affected by the lockdown.

"The page has become a vehicle for businesses and customer."

She said as businesses reopen, the group is already starting to share advice on how to prepare for that, offering help and sharing ideas with other small businesses.