POLITICAL figures have given their view on how Barrow and Ulverston will recover from the coronavirus crisis.

Ann Thomson, leader of Barrow Borough Council, said people's lives will be “decimated” and it would take more funding and resources to fully recover from the impact.

She said: “The immediate aftermath of the virus will be people grieving for their lost loves ones, potentially businesses deciding not to re-open, people seeking help for mental health problems.

“I know for a fact domestic violence cases has been on the rise during lockdown so that will have to be dealt with through various charity work.”

Cllr Thomson said the government should consider dropping businesses rates to help independent companies “bounce back”.

“The government paid out £980,000 in the latter end of last week to small businesses,” she said.

“But that may not be enough. At the end of the day, it's up to the landlords whether they choose to decrease rents for the shops during this time.

“The government could perhaps bring in a bit more relief on business rates if they’re serious about helping businesses.

“The government needs to come out with a clear plan about what the end game is.

“Charities will definitely need more staff and resources when it’s over because they’ll be inundated with cases - especially the women’s centre.

“The aftermath will be dreadful but we can all get through it as a town together.”

Sharon Webster, mayor of Ulverston, said seeing the town closed up was “devastating”.

“It’s going to take the community pulling together to see the town restored to what it was,” she said.

“There’s a lot of work happening behind the scenes discussing plans as to what will happen once the lockdown is lifted.

“I know the Coro and Roxy are businesses which are being particularly hit hard.

“The council is working on a plan of action to get businesses back into action once the lockdown is lifted.”

Mrs Webster said the community response had been “brilliant” since announcing the lockdown.

“Everyone’s been pulling together and helping each other however they can,” she said.

“It’s been brilliant.”