A FAMILY-run vehicle repair centre has offered to help key workers keep working during the coronavirus pandemic.

Chaplane, which is based on Severalls Business Park, Colchester, is offering the use of its courtesy cars to any worker whose car is not driveable after an accident.

The business is not carrying out normal work following the Covid-19 outbreak.

But director Paul Chapman said the firm wanted to do its bit to support the frontline staff and key workers.

He said: “We have some cars which are not being used so we want to help if a member of the NHS or a key worker has an accident and their car is undriveable.

"There is a lot of stress on key workers workers.

"Their routine has gone out of the window and they don’t need the worry of struggling to get to work.

“Accidents will still happen and if their car isn’t driveable we want to help.”

Mr Chapman said it had been a difficult decision to close the business but it had been taken to protect his staff.

Any key worker in need of a courtesy car should call 01206 853322 or email office@chaplane.co.uk.

  • The Gazette is urging people to shop local and support independent businesses in any way they can, including sharing their stories about local businesses and the efforts they make to serve customers during the crisis.

Many shops, businesses and restaurants in the county are already suffering from a significant drop in takings.

Readers can support the campaign by using the hashtag #BackingEssexbusiness.

You can let us know about a local business which has gone above and beyond, or tell us about the ways your business is coping.

For more information about supporting the campaign, email gazette.newsdesk@newsquest.co.uk.