2020 has been a year for unsung heroes, a year for recognising the people who go above and beyond every day.
The likes of postal workers, bin men, factory workers, care workers, teachers, bus drivers and hospital staff have kept this country going during this most unprecedented time.
This week is national Respect for Shopworkers Week, a week of celebration for the shop keepers who have stayed open throughout lockdown, putting their lives on the line to feed their community.
We take a look back on some of the highs and lows faced by our Worcester shop keepers during 2020.
1. A tearful goodbye - Worcester shop owners retire after thirty years
Beloved pillars of the community Ramesh, and Sheila Patel, owners of Wyld’s Lane News - known by locals as Sheila’s Shop, retired in August after thirty seven years in the business.
2. Supermarket staff: The unsung heroes feeding us here in Worcestershire
Co-op manager Dan Brewer describe the challenges him and his team face working on the frontline at the Ronkswood branch. He said: “The feedback we have received from the vulnerable, at risk and others in the community has been really moving, we have been described as a ‘lifeline,’ with customers saying we really do make a difference.”
3. Death threats over toilet paper in Tolly
Thiruk Kumar, 42, said he has received threats from people after a woman posted a video on Facebook in which she filmed him while accusing him of putting the prices up, at his Premier convenience shop in Tolladine Road, Worcester.
4. Shopkeeper devastated after smash-and-grab raid at Worcester store
Owner of Friends Malayali Asian Store for 12 years, Dennis Matthews said: "It is really really gutting. We cannot open with the window how it is, and we will have to wait to get a new till.
"That and the fact business is slow due to the pandemic means we will really struggle."
5.Owner of Fernhill Heath Costcutter wins Absolute Radio award
Alan, 58, has worked in the shop - which is also the village post office - his whole life and has been working with North Claines Parish Council throughout the pandemic to ensure the community have had adequate supplies. Hilary Owen nominated Alan for the award. She said: “There is nothing that Alan will not do for you.
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