A SOMERSET Bishop visited Taunton high street – to offer support to retail owners during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Right Reverend Ruth Worsley, Bishop of Taunton, met with members of Taunton Chamber of Commerce, shop owners and staff who work at Debenhams on Tuesday (October 20).

“We are thinking of the whole needs of people, in terms of their physical safety, their wellbeing, their mental health and of course the financial health of our county town at a time when it was already under great challenge,” Bishop Ruth said.

Margaret Gibbins, chaplain at Debenhams, introduced Bishop Ruth to staff and managers at the Taunton store – who all seemed positive despite the current challenges they are facing.

“Sometimes I feel I’ve not been able to support them as much as I would’ve liked, I’ve had situations where I’ve taken two weeks holiday and when I’ve come back in a lot of the staff have gone,” said Ms Gibbins.

“There’s not been that farewell, or goodbye, I’ve not been able to offer a last minute prayer and say take care of yourself.

“I think it’s been really encouraging for some of the staff to know that people they feel are a bit divorced from this world are actually taking an interest and care about them. I think that is very important.

“The staff are very philosophical, they’re always very cheerful, very welcoming, hardworking and committed.”

Bishop Ruth then visited other businesses in town, and had lunch with Colin Barrell and Nigel Pearce from Taunton Chamber of Commerce.

Mr Barrell and Mr Pearce believe the visit was a good chance for the church and the chamber to make a positive difference to residents and businesses in Taunton.

They added: “It is heartening to know that there is also pastoral help and care for those who are really struggling to cope with the pressures of running a business, or employees who are very worried about their future when there is so much uncertainty.

“We hope that the conversation we had will help to improve communication for all our residents, business owners, managers and employees.

“There are undoubtedly going to be difficult times ahead, but by working together the Chamber, the Churches and other bodies can really make a positive difference for so many people.

“We are aware that there is likely to be a working group forming to look at all aspects of how Taunton can survive and thrive in the months to come and we look forward to working with Bishop Ruth and the other members of her team to develop some positivity for the town.”