During this past year, we have all come to terms with the new world that has be foisted upon us.

Furlough, lockdown, home-schooling, working from home, wearing a face covering, social distancing and hand sanitising are just some of the changes we have had to come to terms with.

People have come together to support the community - the work of the NHS, social and emergency services, volunteers - with all their efforts widely recognised and rightly so.

Bridport mayor, councillor Ian Bark, wants to highlight the efforts of other workers in the town that may sometimes be over looked.

He said: "This week, I would like to thank another group of people who have found themselves on the front line from day one, but are all too often somewhat forgotten and taken for granted.

"I would like to focus my thanks on behalf of the wider Bridport community to the people that work in the commerce and business community who have continued to serve and support us, and without whom we would have found ourselves in dire straits."

Cllr Bark has visited as many businesses in the Bridport Town Council area as he could to say a personal 'thank you'.

He added: "It has been an absolute privilege to speak to business owners and employees and hear about their experience of life during the pandemic.

"I have been told about:

• How businesses have been supporting volunteer groups and charities

• How businesses have had to develop an online presence in order to continue to serve us

• The challenges of maintaining basic social distancing rules when working in someone's home in order to, for example, repair a broken boiler."

Unfortunately, Cllr Bark was also told about some less than positive experiences people on the retail front line have had.

He said: "Not everyone in our community has been happy to conform to the basic social safety measures we have been asked to adhere to when we visit public spaces - sanitise, wear a mask and social distancing.

"Instances of verbal abuse when interacting with some customers are not uncommon and leave employees feeling vulnerable."

Cllr Bark sends his thanks to all businesses and staff across the town.

He added: "The experience has reinforced my pride in the people who serve and support us all in the community we call home - Bridport.

"Next time you visit or use one of our businesses, please remember to say thank you. Though the best way to say thank you is to shop local."

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