THE Hexham Courant has come in for praise for its ‘vital role’ it continues to pay during the coronavirus crisis.

Coun. Cath Homer, who represents Hexham East on Northumberland County Council, took to Facebook to sing the praises of Courant staff during challenging times.

Classed as key workers, the Courant journalists have endeavoured to keep the Tynedale public up to date with the latest breaking news, providing crucial updates as the pandemic has took hold of the entire country.

The team has been working round the clock from their homes for a number of weeks to ensure vital news is relayed to the public as quickly as possible through its website, social media accounts and newspaper.

Coun. Homer said: “It’s often all too easy to underestimate, criticise and take for granted the press, so I just wanted to say a few words about our local paper, the Hexham Courant, the news desk staff and reporters.

“The community in Tynedale has come together in extraordinary ways during these unprecedented times and the Courant staff have done their very best to play their part, sharing relevant information in a timely manner with local people.

“At a time when much of the national press and social media are reporting bad news with confused messaging, the Courant has reported news in a challenging but balanced way and haven’t succumbed to creating excess negativity.

“If we are in the business of thanking our communities, we should not forget the vital role the Hexham Courant has played too.

“At a time when many businesses are struggling with the affects of the pandemic, we should support our local press.

“Well done to you all - keep going!”

To help people access the print edition of the Hexham Courant, a free, six-week delivery service has been launched to assist customers during lockdown.

To take advantage of the service, call 0800 953 0227.

Customers can also subscribe to an advert-light digital product for less than £1 a week by phoning the same number.

More details of the subscription packages can be found on the Hexham Courant website at www.hexhamcourant.co.uk.

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