'I am so proud of them all': Northampton pharmacist joins Chron's Big Thank You campaign to thank team and customers

A pharmacist in Northampton has thanked customers for their support during the Covid-19 pandemic and praised his team for their resilience and professionalism.

David Ashton, from Abington Pharmacy, was responding to the Chronicle & Echo's Big Thank You campaign and said pharmacies had remained open throughout lockdown while some GP surgeries and dentists had had to close.

"Pharmacies have continued to provide a consistent service, which the nation depends on to protect their wellbeing. Significant additional work has been undertaken to ensure the vulnerable get what they need on time, and at considerable risk to those providing that care," he said.

"Our doors have remained open for a variety of face to face consultations, modifications have had to be made to our premises to create safe social distancing.

"An arduous rota of additional cleaning and wearing of PPE has been adhered to, and our delivery service has been extended from our regular 70-80 deliveries to around 150-170 per day.

"I am so proud, and would like to thank and congratulate my team for the resilience they have shown. Furthermore, I would love to thank our loyal customers for their kind understanding and adherence to the new rules during this challenging time.

"Even though we have taken steps to protect ourselves, some of our colleagues have fallen ill during the crisis, and have had to follow the government's directions of self isolation to protect their colleagues and the general public.

"These absences, plus the increased workload could have created an insurmountable challenge. Instead, we have been able to rely on the kindness and professionalism of some very brave people who have provided assistance despite not being contractually obliged to do so.

"I would like to thank our university and college students that have provided cover; NAMMC "Pharmabikes"; Northampton Fire and Rescue Service; and our GoodSam Volunteers."