Leading agricultural supplier Carrs Billington has thanked staff for keeping essential services open for rural communities.
The Carlisle-headquartered business is a lifeline for farms, rural businesses and communities with its supply of animal feeds, farm equipment and domestic fuels.
While its network of 32 Country Stores is closed for browsing and self-selection, it is operating a telephone order service with collection or delivery.
Managing Director Dr Mark Cole said: “We must thank all our staff for dealing with challenges presented by the coronavirus pandemic. We are one of the essential services that must keep working through this crisis.
“Our focus is staying safe and disease-free whilst keeping our customers served.”
Supplies continue to arrive daily and Dr Cole said there was no need for anyone to stockpile or panic buy.
The company has pledged to keep in weekly contact with customers to ensure they do not run short of the supplies needed to keep their own businesses running.
Dr Cole added: “Our customer-facing staff are busier than ever and we are ensuring they are supported by colleagues working from home. In these unprecedented times we are asking them all to think outside of the normal ways of working to get the job done.
“Facebook pages have been updated with additional contact numbers as our telephone lines are very busy.”
“We would ask customers to have plans in place to minimise contact with delivery drivers and assist with hygiene measures. By working together to protect our drivers, we hope to keep them delivering during this challenging period.”
Dr Cole said staff had been buoyed by messages of support from customers on their recent Facebook posts.
He added: “We are grateful that people recognise the lengths our staff are going to keep them stocked. In situations like we are in a kind word or a smile can go a long way.”
