THE coronavirus crisis is hitting the UK economy hard but while out and about in Bridgwater, you can see businesses doing their utmost to adapt to the unusual climate.

At the beginning of the week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson ramped up Britain's measures to try and minimise the effects of COVD-19, advising people to work from home where possible, advising against all 'non-essential' social contact, and advising people against going to Britain's pubs, clubs and theatres.

Walking along Bridgwater high street on Thursday (March 19) it definitely seems quieter than usual, but there are still a good number of people about and the overwhelming majority of businesses remain open.

Natalie Roberts is the manager at The Duke pub in Bridgwater High Street.

She says the industry has faced a double-whammy, firstly with the majority of sport which drew in customers being cancelled, then the 'advice' for people not to visit pubs in general.

"We have definitely seen a difference since the restrictions were put in place, but we are open, we are taking the hygiene aspect very seriously," Ms Roberts said.

"We are constantly wiping down surfaces, cleaning at every opportunity and have coronavirus advice out on the tables.

"It is a difficult time, the loss of sport was the first thing, and now the advice from government, but we are open and we are doing our best in the circumstances."

Riley was one of the regulars not following the government's advice and enjoying a pint at his local.

"Personally I think there is a lot of panic and over-the-top reaction, it does not bother me," he said.

"I know Natalie and I know she keeps it very clean here - I wouldn't come otherwise."

Another industry which has been hit hard by the outbreak is the travel industry.

Paul Doble, general manager at Hays Travel in Bridgwater said despite the disruption, the remaining team were determined to keep positive and greet people with a smile and good sense of humour.

"Obviously it is far from ideal, but it is affecting so many industries," Mr Doble said.

"We do understand there is a lot of uncertainty for everyone but we really want people to try and rebook where possible, rather than cancel. 

"A lot of people are doing just that - it keeps money in the industry and importantly it gives them something to look forward to."

Ladbrokes and the bookies in the town again are facing a serious downturn, but again workers say they are still open, still have customers in, and there are still sporting events to bet on from foreign horse-racing and dog-racing, as well as the lottery and various machines.

The McMillan Theatre has announced it is suspending all of its shows for the time-being, and Scott Cinema has also had to close its doors.

It hasn't been an easy few months for the high street even before the outbreak, with Warren's Bakery and Claire's Accessories both closing, and Carphone Warehouse soon to join them.

Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce chairman Steve Leahy said the chamber felt the government had no option but to be proactive in trying to halt the progress of the virus.

"However the businesses are going to suffer badly, some a lot more than others," Mr Leahy said.

"One message for all is to buy from your locally-owned shops where possible, or they simply won't be there."