Local solicitors Thatcher + Hallam have set up an advice helpline service to both commercial property landlords and tenants whose businesses are facing a significant impact as a result of the COVID-19 virus.

Lucy Ingram is a solicitor and partner at the firm.

'Anyone on an essential outing through the town will see that with the exception of the main grocery outlets, the only establishments still open are mainly independent bakers, butchers and fruit and vegetable shops,' says Lucy. 'Even those businesses that do manage to open now have reduced hours. Many of my clients, both here in Frome and elsewhere are of course worried about the future. This is equally true for both commercial property landlords as well as tenants.'

In response to these unprecedented challenges and the announcement by the government regarding support package for businesses, fellow commercial property partners Sarah Gratton and Lucy Ingram have set up a commercial property advice helpline.

Lucy explains, 'Whether businesses want to talk about missed rental payments or any other matter, Sarah and myself can be contacted direct at the numbers set out below. We will then be able to provide initial practical advice over the telephone on an informal and confidential basis on what sort of options may be available to protect the business into the future.'

As well as launching the commercial property advice helpline in Frome, today also sees Thatcher + Hallam begin their sponsorship of Frome Nub News.

'We are delighted to be joining up with Frome Nub News,' adds Lucy. 'We already have a large client base in town (including the business sector) and we already actively support the local community here, whether the rugby minis at the Frome Rugby Football Club or the Somerset Farmers' Market both at the Cheese & Grain and the Frome Independent. This really is a time for all of us to start pulling together. By offering practical solutions to both landlord and tenant, that is the very least that we can do to help.'

Lucy Ingram can be contacted direct during normal office hours on 01761 409 337 and Sarah Gratton is available on 01761 409 304. Further details are available here: the company web site , and news about the firm can be found by following them on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.