AS the coronavirus lockdown approaches the end of its first week Thurrock Nub News has been looking at how some of the borough's businesses have been managing to continue to offer their services to the public.

Below are just a fraction of the innovative ideas and local services being made available.

We are sure there are plenty more.Please let us know about them via the Facebook page or by emailing [email protected] and we will help promote your business or service.

You can also highlight your business for free on our Local listings page.

Stanford-le-Hope man Steve Westrop provides IT support and is able to enable people to keep in touch by helping to facilitate or host online networking meetings.

Lisa Hearn, from East Tilbury, has run Regency Dance, a dance and gymnastics school for the past 10 years in the local area for children aged two years old and upwards - and adults.

Though the school is closed Regency Dance is offering free online lessons. Check out this link

A solictor in Stanford-le-Hope is managing to keep busy online - and has even worked out a way to witness document signatures!

Sue Galley who works for Paula Day Solicitors in Stanford-le-Hope says: "We're still offering telephone interviews and managing to sign wills, witnessing signatures through the window. But hey its working."

"WesupplyandfittyresacrossEssexandwehavebeenurgingourcustomerstokeepthefrontdoorshut,openthecarremotelyandpayelectronically.Sofarsogood.CallPaulon07931221197.

AvitalemergencyserviceisbeingprovidedbyThurrock-based[L]https://www.facebook.com/JBDrainsandGuttersLtd/">JB Drains and Gutters - who have even reduced their prices during the crisis.

John Barrett, who runs the company, says: "During the current situation we are taking very serious precautions while carrying out our necessary work.

"Where possible we are avoiding all social contact. This can sometimes be difficult when entering homes to clear blockages in your toilets etc.

"We have all necessary PPE and will ask household members to stay in another room while we are in properties.

"All invoices will be sent electronically and bacs payments will need to be made. Cheques and cash are not being accepted currently.

"Finally, we will be reducing our prices for our services as we understand overflowing sewage is of course an emergency that will need to be rectified and know that many will be suffering with their income at this time.

"If you need any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01375 271012 or 07880 241031."

Will Norrington is the mortgage and life insurance broker for Howgates Estate agents in Stanford.

He says: "I have lots of people coming to me at the moment concerned for their mortgages and understanding payment holidays and re-mortgaging options etc.

"I can advise, submit and progress mortgage and life insurance applications safely and efficiently, without the need to meet in person, with the help of telephone or FaceTime meetings if preferred.

"Please feel free to message, visit my page or call me for any help and advice you may need."

Despite the crisis there will still be things to celebrate and gifts will be needed. A Thurrock woman's business may have the answers.

Sarah Louise Stevens says: "Our family business is making clocks and bookends and various other items out of vinyl records and CDs.

"I am thankful that some orders are still coming in, but we are using our spare time to get more on our shop and create new products.

"If anyone local needs a personalised gift for someone local then we can happily offer a no-contact delivery service, when we're out on our daily exercise.

"Or if they are further afield then we can post. Just message me directly as we offer a cheaper price for locals. New Fangled Things.

Also read How our businesses are coping