We live in troubling and difficult times.

It is only a week since we were told to stay in and make essential journeys only. I am sure that I am not alone in feeling that it has been a lot longer than this.

But in this short period of time the town has pulled together to find ways of coping and finding ways to support those who need help.

The Newtown Network has been set up to co-ordinate the work of the many voluntary organisations already at work in the town.

Information about the help and support available has been produced, help found to deliver food and prescriptions, and ways found to support each other.

It is a difficult time for many, but I need to mention the extra special efforts that many local businesses have been making to provide meals and food throughout the town. The Newtown Network will try to advertise these services when ever they are available.

From all that we are told the current situation will last for some time.

The town has to settle into a new way of coming together, using social media and the internet to communicate, however not everyone is comfortable or able to use these systems.

Let's never forget that a phone call to those you know means much more than it would in the past. So let's talk more now that we are not able to meet in the same way as before.

It is amazing how quickly we have stopped having to deal with the old problems, such as the traffic lights, parking problems and the school run.

Now we are learning to deal with new issues of shopping trips, shopping shortages, loneliness and home education.

None of us need to be alone in dealing with these issues – there are fellow townspeople and organisations ready to help, and opportunities for people to help. Find out more by looking at the resources on www.newtownnetwork.org.uk, and remember to phone a friend.