EAST Lancashire MP Nigel Evans has called on resident to invoke the 'Blitz Spirit' of the Second World War in the face of the coronavirus .

The Ribble Valley Tory and Commons deputy speaker said his offices would remain open with his staff working from home.

Mr Evans said: "I would like to offer my most sincere and infinite thanks to the NHS workers who are dealing on the frontline of this worldwide pandemic.

"The vast majority of us have never seen anything like this and will hopefully never see anything like this in the future. We are in a war against this virus.

"We must stick together and make efforts to look after each other and particularly our elderly by using means of technology, by leaving shopping outside of their homes or simply by checking up on them over the phone.

"We must show the resilience that our parents, grandparents and great-grandparents showed between 1939-49 in our battle against this virus.

"We must stop stockpiling to ensure everybody has their fair share. We must show the inspiring strength and caring of our communities. One thing above all - we will get through this.

My deepest condolences go to those who have already been affected, in particular to those who have lost loved ones before their time.

"My office will remain open with my staff working at home to ensure your concerns continue to be listened to. If you could try to email rather than call where possible, this would be appreciated. "