TAXI company Metro Cars is playing its part in allowing people to go on essential journeys during the UK lockdown that has been enforced to stop the spread of coronavirus.

Owner of the Bolton-based private taxi company Nick Astley said the firm is operating with a skeleton staff and is making sure social distancing rules are being followed.

The company, which has an office on Tonge Moor Road, provides a source of transport for residents to fulfil vital trips out of their homes such as going food shopping, which is covered under the lockdown laws.

Nick said: “From the feedback we have received customers are pleased that we have managed to stay open.

“We will remain open for as long as we possibly can – we want to provide a service to our customers.

“At the moment we have got a skeleton staff and I think we are giving a good service.

“We just need to pull together really and keep safe.

“People have got to try and keep their distances from others to protect themselves and be as safe as possible.”

The sense of togetherness communities have been showing in helping others during the COVID-19 pandemic has been encouraging for Nick.

“I hope some good comes out of all this and it brings people together to appreciate others,” Nick said.

One of the restrictions that Prime Minister Boris Johnson put in place last week was the closure of non-essential businesses.

And a list of the type of firms that can stay open to provide essential services and goods was subsequently published.

Taxi or vehicle hire businesses was included on the list and Nick said he had confirmation from Bolton Council that his firm can still operate under the law.