Stagecoach has publicly praised its staff as the company supports the national effort against coronavirus.

The firm thanked employees across the country for their "fantastic work" enabling key workers to keep moving as the nation enters its fourth week of lockdown measures.

Stagecoach has also announced extra steps being taken to offer extra support for those in key sectors, including dedicated shuttles and demand responsive transport for healthcare workers.

Measures to support local communities, the supply chain, and distribution networks are also being put in place.

Martin Griffiths, Stagecoach's chief executive, said: “Key workers across Britain are working incredibly hard as part of the national effort to beat the coronavirus. I’m extremely proud of all the great work that our own teams are doing to keep the country moving, including getting our vital healthcare workers to hospitals.

“Our own heroes behind the wheel and their colleagues in support roles are really putting their country and their local communities first. We know from the feedback we’ve received from many customers across the country how much their selfless efforts are appreciated and we are doing everything we can to keep our people and our customers safe.

“We are also trying to play our part through special initiatives in partnership with local authorities and the NHS to support key workers, the supply chain, distribution networks and other vital services.

“It’s important that we all follow the government and public health advice to tackle the epidemic and support each other at this time.”

In Manchester, the firm is providing extra services to transport people to local business parks and the major Amazon distribution centre.

Timetables have also been revised to reflect reduced demand following government advice to stay at home and avoid non-essential travel.

Service changes have been developed to continue supporting key workers on their commutes, but the firm has also encouraged feedback from its customers on specific changes they would like to see.

Visit stagecoachbus.com/coronavirus for more details.