Elmbridge Borough Council (EBC) sought to reassure residents of the steps they were taking to support the community during the coronavirus.

On Monday (March 31), Council Leader Stuart Selleck published an open statement assuring residents of EBC's support as Covid-19 coronavirus continued to spread through the region and beyond.

"In these challenging and unsettling times, please be reassured that Elmbridge Borough Council is supporting the community throughout.

"Our Chief Executive and senior officers are at the focal point of coordinating our resources with Surrey County Council, other Local Authorities, the NHS and Government in tackling this crisis. Our dedicated and professional team are responding, almost on an hourly basis, to support our vulnerable residents of the borough," Cllr Selleck said.

He added details of the steps EBC was taking in response to the virus lockdown.

A mix of existing and newly recruited volunteers are delivering "extra meals" for the meals on wheels service provided by the council are being delivered for those most vulnerable residents including the elderly who are self-isolating at home.

"Services are being adapted to support the most vulnerable residents to include welfare checks, and we are working with Central Surrey Voluntary Action to develop shopping and medication collection services," Cllr Selleck added.

Council meetings have been suspended in Elmbridge since the government declared nationwide lockdown measures in response to Covid-19.

However, Cllr Selleck said that EBC were looking at holding virtual council meetings in future, without specifying a date, so that council meetings could continue.

Community centres in the borough have also closed temporarily.

"There is no doubt that in times of national emergency we see the best of people, and I can assure you that you will see the best of Elmbridge Borough Council during this crisis," Cllr Selleck said.