Council chief executive Steven Broomhead explains how he has been humbled by the response to the coronavirus pandemic

Our town has responded magnificently to the challenge of the pandemic and the social and economic disruption with great determination, resilient spirit and a communal attitude to beat the bug.

All of the essential services and their heroic workers have worked really well in a truly co-ordinated manner.

It’s been humbling to witness the many acts of kindness as people support each other particularly the vulnerable.

It’s a once in a generation moment and may alter the shape and nature of town for years ahead. Government’s difficult decisions have to balance protecting lives with the negative impact on the economy.

Whilst the Government’s business support measures are really welcome, some of our businesses in their current form sadly may not survive.

We are likely to see a bigger British state as the public shoulders more national taxes to pay down the extra borrowing, to meet the consequent higher interest costs and to strengthen the NHS and Social Care.

We are also likely to see a significant decrease in the use of cash. Contactless and smart phone payments may rapidly accelerate.

Home working will also continue to increase for those who are able to do so.

The council has recognised this home working trend with staff having to hot desk in the new council offices.

However, home working brings challenges, such juggling childcare, in sometimes cramped conditions.

I particularly hope the pandemic will not accelerate the decline of national and local newspapers.

They have been described as a fourth emergency service.

They are vital to hold to account and scrutinise public and private organisations as well as offering regular updates on what is happening in the world.

A move towards more online with possible paywalls seems to be inevitable – that is a moment I believe we could regret.

Every Thursday the Guardian in paper form is a product worth waiting for.

Let’s hope that post pandemic this continues.

Beat the bug. Take care.