A PETERSFIELD photographer has launched a fundraising campaign to help save town centre businesses from going under as they lose money and custom due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Tina Knowles says that the “town is already on its knees “ and that the loss of custom for businesses and likelihood of enforced closures to help stop the spread of the virus, could leave Petersfield a ghost town.

She said: “In light of social restrictions being imposed upon us we need to think of those local, social businesses who are going to suffer the most during these restrictive times.

“The fund is aimed at supporting the independent coffee shops, bars and pubs and restaurants, and I know that the ones I have suggested this to so far are 100 per cent behind this idea -- how else are they going to survive?

“We are appealing to the local community to continue to support their favourite social establishments from the confines of their own homes.

“So that when this Corona virus has eventually finished we still have our favourite independent coffee shops, pubs and restaurants to enjoy.

“If we don’t help them it’s very likely many won’t survive the pandemic

“The idea is that we donate an amount close to or equivalent to what we would normally spend anyway.

“This is then divided equally amongst the local independent businesses who have agreed to take part.

“If everyone in Petersfield gives £10, this would help these local businesses stay open for the foreseeable future.”

Those willing to donate can do so on the GoFundMe webapeg Gf.me/u/xrczuw - Petersfield Social Community