KELTY and Cowdenbeath councillor, Alex Campbell, this week stressed that it is important that the people of the area keep adhering to the Government guidelines to ensure the coronavirus crisis can be beaten.

And he added that communities working together can make things that bit easier for vulnerable people.

"This is an unprecedented situation for each of our communities in the Cowdenbeath-Lochgelly area, but following the advice by staying at home, unless you are getting messages from the store or medication from the pharmacy, can greatly reduce the chances of you coming into contact with the virus," he said.

"Clearly it is not easy, and it is a huge change to the daily life we were all accustomed to, but it is very necessary to try to stop the spread of coronavirus.

"Hopefully, by us all following the guidelines, we can bring about some sort of return to normality in the coming weeks".

Councillor Campbell praised the work of volunteers throughout the area in ensuring that vulnerable people are being helped in many ways, and crucially that they are getting the food and medicines that are needed.

He added: "It is also important that people can have people they can talk to for that can bring so much re-assurance in itself.

"If anyone has any concerns I would urge them to give me a call on 07515290210 and I will assist if I can."

Mr Campbell said that the current situation meant that the work of the food banks in Cowdenbeath and Benarty were so vital and he stressed that food donations were more needed than ever by both the Fountain Meeting Rooms and Crosshill Centre organisations.

His North Road Garage petrol station, in Kelty, is collecting food donations and anyone who wants to drop something off can do so and it will be warmly received. Opening hours are variable just now but if anyone is looking to make a donation they can call 01383 830404 to check when it is open.

He concluded: "It is the biggest crisis the whole country has faced in decades, but already it is bringing out the best in our communities and if we all stick together we can get through this."