The Covid 19 crisis has affected every aspect of daily life and to this end members of Monmouth Chamber of Commerce are proposing to change they way they operate.

In a letter to members acting chair Sherren McCabe-Finlayson is suggesting their operating year now starts on Septemer 1 with current membership running until August 30, 2021.

The annual general meeting will then move to October when it is hoped members will actually be able to meet up in person.

Sher says: ‘‘I could have never anticipated, when taking on this role, what a rollercoaster ride it was going to be.

‘‘Who could possibly have foreseen, in quick succession, the battle for information over Agincourt Square; floods; water shortage; and a pandemic that has led to total lockdown of our high street and business community!

‘‘It has nonetheless been a privilege to be in the Chair at this time and I am excited by what we can try to achieve together over the coming months.’’

Following a meeting with Monmouthshire County Council members are being advised to contact the local authority as it is also offering to help town businesses and asking for information about what help may be needed after lockdown.

In a written report to members Sher says: ‘‘The county council is looking at ways they can speedily help businesses to re-open once lockdown is eased. ‘‘It is highly likely we are going to have social distancing for some time to come.

‘‘How is this going to affect you and what plans are you looking to put in place to accommodate this?

‘‘They want to know what they can do to help you?

‘‘I know our pavements are narrow, which is why I believe they will continue the shared space throughout the town, and consideration is being given to whether relaxing the laws on street trading and allowing evening activity will help?

‘‘Any ideas you have that you would like me to pass on, please let me know.

‘‘I genuinely can’t speak highly enough about Monmouthshire County Council and how much they are trying to help the business community.

‘‘Their staff are working tirelessly to help people where they can. They really do want to help you. An open dialogue has been developed between them and the ‘business leaders’ that everyone wants to see continue past the current crisis. This can only lead to a better working relationship for ALL of us. They are open to ideas - if you have any let me know, they will be listened to.’’

The chamber is also looking at ways members can come together to improve business for the town.

One suggestion is that retailers join together to offer a Monmouth Home delivery service although some traders have done this throughout can it be continued and extended?

Another idea is an Independent Traders leaflet funded by a ‘shared pot’ where all businesses involved would pay a small fee to cover design, printing and distribution. While the Shop local campaign is going to be important now more than ever, mindful that some people will be nervous for a while about travelling distances.

And members are being asked if there are ways they can utilise the outside areas to create meeting hubs for people, on their own, to help improve mental health and get people used to communicating again while maintaining safe distances? Ideas include large chess and other games dotted throughout town, and even shared gym equipment you find in some cities.

Says Sher: ‘‘I know some of these may seem like strange ideas. We are convinced that what’s needed is creative thinking to help get us through this.

‘‘In the meantime we’re here to help where we can. It’s not going to be easy but if we pull together as a town and business community we can come through this.’’