THE MP for Penrith and The Border has paid tribute to key workers and community groups in the first ever virtual parliamentary speech for the constituency.

In the speech on Tuesday, during the Coronavirus debate, Dr Neil Hudson also thanked all those who had come together in Cumbria to support the local communities and offered his condolences to all those who have lost loved ones during the crisis.

Dr Hudson also welcomed the support measures the Government had implemented and praised it for listening to his requests to adapt support schemes so more people benefit from them.

He said: “I pay tribute to all those in the frontline in our NHS and the care sector who have worked tirelessly to keep us safe.

“Also, I would like to thank the key workers who have kept society going, be it in looking after children, supporting our food supply lines or working in our vital public services.”

Dr Hudson MP called for action over the future of Newton Rigg College in Penrith.

He said: “It is absolutely critical that Government works with stakeholders to try to secure a sustainable future for this important educational institution.

“More than ever we must look after colleges like this which supporting our farming industry.”