An Ashby shop owner has paid tribute to the town's independent retailers for their 'resolve and resilience' during the coronavirus crisis.

Zoe Fovargue, who celebrated her shop Pet Deli's 10th anniversary on 1 April, has stayed open throughout lockdown providing a delivery and ring-before-you-arrive pick-up service.

On Monday (1 June) she will be welcoming back passing trade with customers served from behind a protective perspex screen in the doorway of the Brook Street shop.

Zoe told Ashby Nub News: "We have been very, very, fortunate as a business to be able to stay open.

"We are very thankful, but it's not the case for every business in the town and I feel for those that I know are struggling.

"But what has been amazing is to see how so many have, and continue to, adapt and think outside the box to keep their businesses alive.

"It just goes to show the determination of Ashby's shop owners and is testament to their resolve and resilience.

"Of course, it wouldn't be possible without the customers who are supporting local businesses - and we know that some are paying that little bit more because they are choosing local over chains and supermarkets.

"While it's more important than ever at the moment to help keep independents afloat hopefully, when this is all over, they will continue to do so.

"We will need their business just as much then as we do now.

"We, at Pet Deli, are truly grateful for their continued support."

Pet Deli will open on Monday to Saturday from 9am to 3pm, with the delivery and collection service also continuing.

"There will be no browsing in the shop, but we will get what customers need and bring it to the door, where contactless payment is preferred and can be made through the screen.

"We aren't allowing people into the shop yet, it's too much of a risk to us and other customers, but by serving walk-ups quickly will mean there is less likelihood of queuing outside which we obviously want to avoid," added Zoe.