Coronavirus is affecting our Island community as well as the nation, and we’re all, by necessity, adapting the way we live, work and socialise.

For most Islanders, this coronavirus will be no worse than flu if they get it at all, but for at-risk folks it can be serious. We need to protect them - and enable the NHS to be able to cope. If we follow the expert advice we can slow down the spread of coronavirus. That means keeping our distance from one another, going out when necessary and being careful to wash our hands.

There’s no magic wand to fighting this virus - scientists are working on a vaccine as we speak - but I want to reassure you I continue to ensure the Island remains firmly in the mind of Government.

I’ve lobbied ministers daily for clarity for businesses, the voluntary sector and other employers. We needed a bold package that supports people in their jobs - and that happened last week.

I’ve also asked the government to relax competition law so the ferry firms can work jointly on resilience plans. That is happening this week.

We’ve got permission to allow people to stay in their cars on the ferries.

I speak with Islanders daily to understand fully what everyone is facing during this outbreak, including NHS and IW Council colleagues, IW Chamber of Commerce and Visit IOW. I have spoken with Island businesses and voluntary sector organisations.

I’d like to pay tribute to all those keeping our services going. There are too many to mention but I’d especially like to praise our NHS and council teams and also those working to keep our shops stocked.

It’s vital there are supplies available for those who need them (including those working long hours to keep us safe) so I really would urge Islanders to buy sensibly at this time and be considerate of others. I know most of us will be - but I want all of us to be.

I’d also like to thank our teachers for supporting parents needed to keep frontline services going.

Please get in contact if there’s anything I can do. I am meeting Islanders as ever - but doing so by phone rather than in person for the moment.

As the Prime Minister has said - to get through this we must work together.