Coronavirus: Bognor Regis residents urged to 'carry on as normal'

Jason Passingham, chairman of the Bognor Regis Business Improvement District (BID), shared concerns for local businesses who are 'experiencing fewer visits' to their premises as

people start to minimise social contact 'ahead of any government guidelines'.

He added: “We’re supporting our businesses as much as we practically can by sharing information and ideas about ways to adapt should the guidance change, resulting in fewer people out and about in the town centre.

"We’re also keeping them updated in terms of the business rates reductions and grants announced in the budget, and trying to provide practical tips on how to approach the situation.

"This information will going live on our website later today, with an email going out to everyone on our database directing them to the site.

"As a small business owner myself, I understand the effects of continued low footfall, which could take some of our great local businesses to the brink of closure."

Mr Passingham said the BID isn't asking members of the community to take risks with their health but just to follow the Government’s recommendations.

"At the time of writing, only those people that are displaying symptoms such as a fever and persistent cough are being advised to self isolate for seven days," he said.

"Until that advice changes, we’d like to encourage everyone else to carry on as normal, visiting and using our fantastic local businesses."