SHOPPERS have been urged to support Cumbrian businesses following the news that the UK economy has taken a 20 per cent hit during the lockdown.

The Office for National Statistics has reported a 20.4 per cent decline in the UK’s economy in April.

April was the mid-point of the Government’s nationwide lockdown restrictions aimed at slowing the spread of Covid-19.

The fall in the UK’s economy has been labelled historic as it is 10 times larger than the most dramatic decline seen before the virus.

However Gerard Richardson, owner of Richardson’s Fine Wines in Whitehaven said that there are reasons to be optimistic about the high street.

He said: “I am pragmatic about this, our business will return in some form or we’ll find something else to do.

“This idea of hibernating the economy was a genius idea, it’s allowed us to do what we’re told and stay home.”

Mr Richardson added that it is a time for positive action in order to see local business thrive post-Covid-19.

“What we don’t need now is more years of austerity; what we do need to get through this is investment. Whitehaven still has this fantastic £25 million High Street Fund on the cards – we’ve just got to get behind the town.”

Workington’s town centre shops are set to reopen on Monday, coinciding with the reopening of non-essential businesses.

A spokesperson from the Washington Square Shopping Centre said: “The retail sector has faced a challenging period during lockdown, as with many areas of the economy across the UK, but we are moving forwards optimistically with the news that non-essential retail and shops can reopen from Monday.”

Measures are being put in place so that customers can safely shop in the town centre.

“We have been working hard over the last few weeks to put in place a range of measures in line with Government guidance to ensure that our shoppers and employees can have a safe and enjoyable retail experience once again.”

They said: “The reopening will be an opportunity to boost our sector and we would encourage our local community to come out and support the brands within our scheme.”