The coronavirus pandemic has made the last 10 months or so incredibly difficult for our favourite pubs.

Watering holes have been forced to close their doors for extensive periods of time due to the government guidelines put in place to combat against the spread of the deadly virus.

However, a Southend boozer has earned praise for working around the clock, even when closed to customers, as they offer assistance to Southend Hospital.

The Castle pub, on Eastern Esplanade, has been made to contend with the difficulties of running a business since the outbreak of Covid-19, but the watering hole has been hailed by Echo reader Pat Steer as a community hero.

Pat said: “The Castle pub has been supplying pies to the hospital and also dropping cooked food off in these tough times.

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“They have been providing food hampers to their elderly customers and several young people who have no parents.

“Well done to the team working so hard at the Castle. It is showing it is a real community pub.”

We want to shine a light on those who have played a key role in helping you get through the pandemic.

To nominate your Community Hero, simply complete the form below.