GUY Opperman has praised the way residents in the Tyne Valley have coped during the coronavirus pandemic.

In a letter to Hexham Town Council, Hexham's MP lauded the way volunteers rallied around to look after elderly and vulnerable people throughout lockdown and beyond.

He said: "I want to take this opportunity to thank you. The last few months have been very difficult and the work of volunteers has been vital in supporting the most vulnerable.

"Many people went above and beyond to provide everything from food shopping to vital medication."

Chairing the meeting, Coun. Bob Hull was also keen to pay tribute to townsfolk.

He said: "I want to congratulate and give thanks to the people of Hexham for the way they have lived up to the situation over the last seven months.

"By social distancing, the wearing of masks, and not congregating in large groups, we have shown what a strong community we are."