THROUGHOUT the coronavirus outbreak, staff at the Gazette and Herald have been working to make sure our readers get the latest local news on what is happening in Wiltshire - just as we have done for over two centuries. But like many businesses, we too have felt the economic effects of the pandemic.

These days many readers prefer to get their news online, whether on a smartphone, tablet or social media. Now we are asking readers to back us, by signing up to our new online digital subscription scheme, so you can continue to get all your news for only £1 a week.

You the readers value the Gazette - when we revealed on the threat to Braeside in Devizes and Oxenwood in Marlborough you rallied behind the bid to save the popular outdoor learning centres.

Originally it was feared both centres would quickly close but after an outcry supported by the Gazette they were given a reprieve.

Wiltshire Council decided to look for new companies to take over the centres and at first it seemed a deal had been done with Lackham College to run Braeside activities.

This plan was short lived and Braeside was again under threat, but in February the building in Devizes and courses were taken over by Classes Abroad.

Editor Pete Gavan said: “We’ve been covering our communities for generations but we’ve never faced a threat like we do today.

‘The coronavirus outbreak has significantly hit our revenues and newspaper sales as we need your support to make sure we’re here for generations to come. The work my reporters do week in week out cannot come for free online – quality journalism must be paid for. And so that’s why we’ve got our new digital subscriptions.

“If you value local journalism and its future I’d encourage you to take one out – it’s just £1 per week. Thank you.”

Go to https://www.gazetteandherald.co.uk/subscribe/