Concerned residents have set up a ‘proactive’ cleaning group to tackle coronavirus head on.

In response to the rising number of Covid-19 cases, residents in Chigwell and Chigwell Row have decided instead of waiting for cases to spread to the area, to take a “proactive stance”.

On March 11 residents set up the Coronavirus Action Group, consisting of almost 15 volunteers to clean public areas.

The action group was set up by Chigwell resident and parish councillor Pranav Bhanot. He says the aim is not to cause panic or undue alarm but to be as proactive as possible.

Mr Bhanot said: “Chigwell is a place I call home and I have a young family. I did not want to sit around and simply wait for the virus to spread.

“I am a local councillor in the area and it is important to not just sit in meetings but to be on the ground to make a positive difference to residents.

“I think there is no room for complacency and we should always take precautions where ever we live in the UK.”

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Cleaning teams will focus on germ hotspots such as tube stations. Photo: Pranav Bhanot

Small teams of volunteers will be allocated to ten sites in Chigwell to clean public areas with detergent.

Targeted areas include local tube stations Grange Hill and Chigwell, bus stops, public playgrounds, the library, the petrol station and hand railings around public footpaths.

Volunteers have provided with face masks, gloves and cleaning equipment, funded through sponsorship from local businesses.

Since the campaign's launch, almost £200 has been raised

Mr Bhanot added: “The safety of the volunteers is also a primary concern when assisting with the clean. Therefore, caution is being taken that volunteers are sufficiently fit and able to partake in this community initiative.”

“We hope this initiative continues as frequently and on as many days as possible to help limit the risks of Coronavirus spreading in our local area. “

Mr Bhanot, who works as a lawyer, has also promised to provide free legal guidance to employees and employers regarding the virus, employment rights and best practice.

The group will also check up on elderly residents and ensure they have taken the correct precautions to protect against the virus.

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