NORTHWICH'S MPs are backing calls to support the Guardian and other local trusted news outlets across the country during the coronavirus pandemic.

The News Media Association (NMA), which represents news publishers across the UK, has written two letters to Government asking for its backing during this time of global crisis.

Dozens of MPs have already given their support to the campaign, including all three MPs that represent Northwich.

Mike Amesbury, Labour MP for Weaver Vale, said: "Local newspapers are a vital source of information about what's going on in the local community.

Northwich Guardian:

"They're especially important now as many elderly and vulnerable people in our communities may not have access to the internet and depend on their local paper as a trusted source of information.

"It's therefore hugely important that they're supported as much as possible during this time of national crisis."

The NMA is calling for the Government to commit to spending on advertising in local newspapers like the Guardian to help support the industry, and to extend the 100 per cent business rates holiday – currently granted to businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors – to news publishers.

It also wants the Government's backing for newspaper deliverers, with residents unable to get out and about during the lockdown.

Esther McVey, Conservative MP for Tatton, said: "Local papers are the lifeblood of the community and we must do everything we can to support them and the journalists working to provide us with essential news in these difficult times.

Northwich Guardian:

"For many people receiving their paper is the only part of their week that has not changed. We are asking people to stay in, stay separated from family and friends and make huge changes to their daily lives and their local paper is the bit of normality – a small way they can stay connected.

"The Guardian provides vital information, not everyone has access to the internet or social media, and local papers are a trusted source for many and can get those vital messages from the NHS, Public Health England across as well as all the local news people look forward to.

"In this time of national emergency communities across Tatton are coming together, as they always do, and supporting each other and looking after the most vulnerable. The Guardian is keeping readers in touch with help that is available to them and reporting heart-warming stories which help us all in these unprecedented times.

"I want to see local paper deliveries continue and I will be speaking to Chancellor Rishi Sunak to ask what support the Treasury can offer for local media outlets."

The call comes at a worrying time for the industry, with many businesses struggling to buy advertising because of their own cashflow problems as a result of the coronavirus.

Edward Timpson, Conservative MP for Eddisbury, added: "Voters need to know what is going on if they are to make informed decisions, and it is the job of the press to hold those in elected office—like me—to account.

Northwich Guardian:

"Local news is the cornerstone of journalism – without it the news supply chain dries up. Some of the greatest national reporters started on their local paper. They are part of the communities they serve, and people rely on and respect them.

"At a time when more responsibilities and powers are being passed down to locally-elected bodies, including for policing, the local paper has never been more needed."