It has never been more important to support our local traders, says MP Mel Stride.

The Central Devon MP Stride has appealed to his constituents to rally behind local businesses after Business Secretary Alok Sharma announced yesterday that all non-essential shops will be allowed to reopen in England on Monday, June 15.

This is contingent on them following safety guidelines with any breaches potentially resulting in enforcement notices.

Pubs, bars and restaurants are yet to be given the green light with the Business Secretary confirming they would not be allowed to open until July 4 at the earliest.

Mr Stride, who chairs the House of Commons Treasury Select Committee, said: ‘Essential businesses in Devon that have opened already have been incredibly responsible in terms of their social distancing practices and I have no doubt that retailers who are now planning to open on Monday will do likewise.

‘Every small business in our constituency will be feeling the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and for many of them their survival will depend on how we support them over the coming weeks and months.

‘Please shop locally and shop responsibly as much as you possibly can.’