Coronavirus: Peterborough MP’s praise for city firms going the extra mile during virus crisis

Paul Bristow met with business staff and owners this week - while sticking to social distancing guidelines - to thank them for the effort they are putting in.

He spoke to the staff at a Peterborough takeaway, electricians and taxi firm, and said; “Peterborough is coming together during the national effort. These business going the extra mile are making a crucial difference to those who are vulnerable and to their community. I always talk about Peterborough being a special City but every day it’s our people and businesses who are proving this. Thank you. We will get through this.”

Touqeer Tariq, from the Rizq Peri Peri Grill in Midland Road, are donating food to emergency services and eldery residents.

Mr Tariq said: “With recent events that are taking place we feel passionate about our community, our NHS, our police force and our elderly. It is paramount that they are given the praise of their constant efforts of protecting and saving lives, and that this is recognised.

“Our principal purpose is to donate food as a goodwill gesture.

“It is our way of saying that we appreciate all they do and are doing at present. The Rizq Team will be more than happy to assist, please contact for further information on 07711129997.”

Grant Makin, director and electrician at GM Electrical and Building Contractors said the community had to pull together to get through the crisis.

His firm have been waiving call out fees for NHS workers and vulnerable residents.

He said: “At the moment we are only taking on emergency jobs.

“The directors spoke about how to support the community. I thought about my granddad, who lives alone. We don’t want people like him to worry.

“We had one call from a client who had moved to care for her elderly mum, and needed security on her house sorting out. Because she was caring for her mum, we waived the £65 call out fee. While we were there they said they had been made redundant from Thomas Cook, and the £65 was a lot of money for them.

“I just want to make a difference, and help out where we can.”

Mr Bristow also met with Shah Lal and his staff from Luxe Cars who will be giving free lifts to hospital patients.