HASLEMERE traders have hit back en masse at suggestions the town is no longer open for business, following nationwide publicity for the Haslemere Health Centre patient – the first to be diagnosed with coronavirus on February 28 without being infected abroad.

Haslemere Chamber of Commerce president Craig McGowan said: “I think a lot of people are annoyed about the way the problem was ‘played up’ in Haslemere.”

Mr McGowan is keen to stress that Haslemere’s business community is working hard to make sure it continues to serve customers following several confirmed cases of coronavirus within the area.

The chamber, which represents more than 100 traders, is aware that the confirmed cases of coronavirus have increased Haslemere’s profile and led to concerns about the safety of shops and businesses.

Members have banded together to issue a very clear message that it’s business as usual in Haslemere.

Speaking on behalf of the chamber, Mr McGowan said: “Haslemere is open for business.

“Our town is full of individual owner-occupied businesses that have been able to respond immediately to events and continue to offer customers the warm, friendly and safe shopping and socialising environment they love.

“We’re in an ideal situation for visits, as shops and businesses are fully prepared and aware of the situation regarding coronavirus.

“Businesses are going the extra mile to reassure staff and customers that they are taking the threat of the virus seriously but are also getting on with the business of welcoming people to our lovely town.”

Chamber members reported that while trade in the town was quieter than usual over the weekend, visitor numbers are climbing and people are shopping, working and socialising in Haslemere as usual.

Town retailers, pubs, restaurants and entertainment venues are playing their part in preventing the spread of the virus by following government guidance and introducing additional hygiene procedures where necessary.

Oli Leach, of Oliver’s Coffee Shop and Wine Bar, said: “Haslemere is still a great place to visit, shop and socialise. Heightened awareness of the virus because of local cases, means that we’ve been well-placed to respond and plan accordingly.

“We’re following advice from the NHS and Public Health England to sneeze or cough into a tissue, frequent handwashing and cleaning surfaces that people tend to touch a lot, such as door handles.

“Customer numbers are stable and we’d encourage as many people as possible to come and visit the town – we’re open for business.”

Haslemere has many independent businesses that can adapt if staff need time off for self-isolation. Chamber members are confident with the authorities’ response to the virus so far and will respond to any new government advice as it becomes available.