As coronavirus grips, the nation traders are having to get to grips with a new and challenging way to keep the people fed.

Dozens of different food outlets have closed and in some cases, supermarkets are limiting the number of people able to enter the premises.

The Market Hall has been used by generation and they have now had to close their door to the public, but they still have a few businesses open striving to help the community they have served for years.

Centre manager at the Market Hall Helen Wylie said: “We have had to close our communal eating areas and some of the cafes with seating have converted to takeaways, some have simply closed.

“Times are hard for everyone at the moment but especially so for small business who do not know when the promised help will come.

“Benson’s Fruit and Veg are delivering throughout the city and are keeping customers supplied with fresh fruit and vegetables.

“Businesses like Pets ‘n’ Plants can also deliver pet food. The sense of community in the Market has always been an important part of its popularity and the communal eating areas were well used, especially on Saturdays, when families were able to come in and eat their choice of food, from around the Market, together.

“The Market has served the people of Carlisle since 1889 and we hope to continue for many years to come with their continued support.”

The Pet Stall in the market is still open and offering deliveries the same as Benson’s Fruit and Veg however the market is now closed to the public.

Fresh supplies are being delivered daily and the team are working flat out to keep people supplied with fresh produce and supplies for their pets.

For more information call: Bensons on 01228 548767 or Hayley from Pets ‘n’ Plants on 07706 755 714.