A WREXHAM councillor has set up a platform for local businesses that are adapting to takeaways to survive the coronavirus pandemic.

Andrew Atkinson, the Conservative councillor for Gresford, has helped to launch a social media space for food businesses in Wrexham that are now moving their business model to takeaways to stay afloat as COVID-19 precautions have caused many pubs, bars and restaurants to close eating areas.

Cllr Atkinson started by making a list of food delivery businesses to help residents in his ward of Gresford, and nearby Marford, have options to eat if they needed to isolate themselves from society which since snowballed into the ‘Wrexham Takeaways’ social media page which covered the whole town.

He said: “This is such a difficult and troubling time for everyone including business owners that are left fighting to survive.

“The takeaway list proved successful in my ward and I was keen to roll it out to all of Wrexham and the border communities as so many restaurants delivered to a wider area so I knew this could help more residents and help the businesses more.

“From this the Facebook page was born as I wanted a one stop shop where people could scroll through and get some choice and see the wide variety of offers. Hopefully this will really help the businesses.

The local councillor also made a plea for people to support local businesses where possible as they face a possible closure temporarily and therefore a loss of earnings.

He said: “Don't panic buy and support local businesses where you can as they need us now more than ever. This is crucial. Support our local businesses please, you'll get great food delivered and they'll have a fighting chance of still being there on the other side.”

Following the announcement on Monday, March 23, by Prime Minister Boris Johnson of bringing the country into an effective lockdown, government guidance states that takeaway businesses may operate as normal whilst sit-in restaurant are now required to close until further notice to prevent the spread of COVID-19 but this will be at their discretion.

A full list of participating restaurants can be found by searching for ‘Wrexham Takeaways’ on Facebook.