Axminster Community Emergency Response (ACER) is being disbanded as residents get used to living life with COVID-19.

The group was formed in early 2020 to provide focused support to the Axminster community during the pandemic, but volunteers say now the time has come to say goodbye with the town in a far more "resilient position".

The disbanding of the group was announced today (Monday), nicknamed 'Freedom Day' as the remaining rules on social distancing are dropped across England.

A statement from ACER read: "As a nation, we now have 18 months of knowledge regarding coronavirus and its virility, and a greater understanding of how to continue our lives in a COVID-safe way.

"As a community, we have strengthened our networks and made positive new connections. As individuals, we have adapted, and most people who need ongoing support have made personal arrangements with loved ones, friends, neighbours and community groups.

"So whilst the pandemic still continues, Axminster is in a much more resilient position.

"With the vaccine roll-out in full swing and the extensive community support networks now in place, the ACER team feel that the need for the focused approach it previously provided has subsided.

"As such, ACER is being disbanded, unless things drastically change.

"Since the start of the pandemic, the ACER team have been in awe of the tireless work by all Axminster's community groups and organisations and blown away by the incredible number of willing and able volunteers and businesses, who stepped forward to help us provide assistance to those in need.

"ACER would like to sincerely thank everyone who contributed toward supporting the community as a whole during this really difficult time. We ask that you continue to do so for all of the amazing organisations and charitable groups that continue to provide a safety net to those who need it.

"Over the last 18 months, the community spirit has been truly exemplary and there have been many notes of thanks that support this.

"We wish everyone a safe and healthy future, from everyone in the ACER team."