Covid lockdown: We really need to support our local shops in this crisis – Hayley Matthews

The shop is always beautifully lush with an array of colours and really lifts the spirits. My dad had the shop next to it in the 90s so I have fond memories of the area.

I'm always asking people how things are and how they're coping in these times so it's no surprise to hear locals saying they're trying to adapt and it's no wonder that many are now selling online.

As I contemplated a coffee, Oryn started shouting "back wooding" which is baby chat for "get me a black pudding roll please”.

He's well aware of the goodies that lie behind the doors of Preachers Patisserie on Lady Lawson street so three black pudding rolls and a malteaser cake later (I might have helped) Oryn had gotten his fix.

I do think it's important to support local businesses in these times and, with more shifting to online, I was happy to hear the guys in Preacher's say they've just joined Deliveroo.

So with lockdown restrictions looming, we need to shift our focus to online support because life goes on and people still want to enjoy flowers and cakes from their local favourites.

If we get told in the near future that places are to close again, then I hope businesses can at least still operate online otherwise I'm going to need to replicate the best breakfast rolls in Edinburgh!

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