Members of the Bromsgrove Lib Dems have gathered together to raise money for two local charities during this difficult period.

Bromsgrove Lib Dem Chair Josh Robinson appealed to members to raise funds for Aston Fields based foodbank NewStarts, stating "As a local party we are continuing to try and help our local community in as many ways as possible."

Local Doctor David Nicholl will be hosting a live event on Facebook to discuss the ongoing Covid-19 crisis, taking questions from local residents.

Everyone is welcome to take part in the event either by submitting questions in advance or during the event hosted on Facebook.

Dr Nicholl will be answering questions regarding the supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) and ventilators whilst giving an insider's perspective on how the healthcare system is tackling this crisis.

Local Doctor David Nicholl has called for Bromsgrove MP Sajid Javid and the Conservative Government to sign up to EU procurement schemes to acquire ventilators and other equipment to tackle coronavirus (Covid-19).

The suggestion comes after 25 EU countries signed up to a joint scheme to buy ventilators, protective gear for medical staff and coronavirus testing kits. The UK, whilst no longer a member of the EU, continues to follow EU law and participates in the internal market and customs union making it eligible to join this scheme if the Government wishes to.

Lib Dem councillors on Bromsgrove District Council have pledged to continue working hard to support residents despite the coronavirus crisis.

The group will be working from home and have suspended face-to-face surgeries, instead opting to conduct surgeries over the phone for the time being.

Rob Hunter, leader of Bromsgrove Lib Dems and councillor for Norton, said "these are troubling times for all of us but we can stay safe and well if we work together and adhere to the Government's advice to stay home."

In response to the shocking news that the Artrix is set to close Bromsgrove Lib Dems have called on the Conservative controlled council to secure the popular arts venue's future.

The group are calling on the council to step-in and save the Artrix as it is a "community asset", holding a variety of theatre, live music and film screenings. The venue also hosts a youth theatre group and a variety of projects for all ages.