Staffordshire's High Sheriff and the Chairman of Staffordshire Moorlands have thanked some of the groups and individuals who have worked tirelessly to support their local communities during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Commander Charles Bagot Jewitt joined Councillor Keith Flunder on a tour of the three principle towns to show their appreciation for the work the volunteers have done since the pandemic began.

They met with volunteers at Biddulph Youth and Community Zone and Biddulph Town Hall; in Cheadle they chatted to people involved in the Covid response at Moorlands Home Link; and in Leek they called in at Haregate Community Centre and St John's Church.

Commander Bagot Jewitt said: "It is often adverse circumstances that bring out the best in our communities and that has certainly been brought to the fore this year.

"A key part of my role is to highlight the enormous contribution made by volunteers and voluntary organisations - but they have more than done that themselves and we have all been humbled by their response.

"With the county moving to the high alert category at the weekend their support and the care they provide will be more needed that ever. We cannot thank them enough."

Councillor Flunder added: "With the move to Tier 2 this was a particularly timely visit and we were delighted to welcome the High Sheriff to the Moorlands so that, together, we could offer our heartfelt thanks to all neighbourhood and community groups and the volunteers who have really shown what true community spirit is.

"I have absolutely no doubt that this spirit will continue to be in very much in evidence as we move into greater restrictions and part of our discussions with the groups focussed on the ongoing support that will be need during the coming weeks and months.

"We know that many people are really feeling the effects of this health emergency in a number of ways but I am confident that here in the Moorlands the strength of our communities and the care we're showing for each other will see us through. Stay safe everyone!"