A TOWN centre manager has encouraged traders to remain optimistic as coronavirus continues to impact business.

The shops which are currently open in Buckley are doing a "brisk trade", town centre manager Andy White has said.

But many remain closed for the moment, with staff furloughed and uncertainty ahead of them.

Mr White said he remains positive about the town's recovery, explaining: "Much like everywhere else, on the positive side people are using our local butcher and the bigger companies like Iceland, Home Bargains and Lidl are doing brisk trade.

"Everyone else is waiting for news from the Welsh Government on how we carry on with lockdown in Wales.

"It is unprecedented and there are still uncertain times ahead.

"I am hoping the businesses can come out of this, because it was already tough before lockdown - certainly for the independents.

"I think perhaps one way of looking forward is that businesses are going to have to diversify if they can.

"We're all going to have to adjust to new ways of living.

"I have seen people talking about how things will never be normal again, and there will be a certain amount of worry in the short term.

"But I'd just encourage people to be positive, be safe and be sensible.

"We will get through this."

Mr White also said he is hoping the town will be able to throw a huge celebration next year in appreciation for the front line workers who have been working hard to help others through the pandemic.

He said: "The community has always supported the town's fun day.

"Next year I am planning to do "Buckley Bounces Back" which will be one big celebration thanking all of the front line workers."