Well known amateur actor believed to be among first in Burnley and Pendle to have coronavirus

And 76-year-old Alan Hargreaves has appealed for everyone to follow the government advice with 'utter reverence' saying: "People do need to take this seriously and follow the guidelines.

"This applies to everyone, we all have to play a part."

Alan rang his GP on Monday when he began to experience the symptoms of coronavirus including a high temperature, cough, headache, persistent aching and shortness of breath.

He was directed to 111 and was told that it was likely he did have the virus and to stay indoors for seven days and get back in touch if the symptoms got worse. Testing is only being carried out in hospitals.

Due to his age, Alan falls into one the most vulnerable categories of the disease, which 71 people have been diagnosed with in Lancashire to date.

Alan, of Barrowford, said: "They told me to expect the symptoms to come and go and that is exactly what has been happening.

"Generally I feel ok, the hardest thing is staying indoors when I am usually very active but I have been cooking and doing work in the garden to keep myself busy."

Alan, who has been a widower for two years after his wife Chrissie died, is one of the leading lights in amateur dramatic circles including The Garrick Club, which has the ACE Centre in Nelson as its base and Colne Dramatic Society.

He has graced the stage in several plays and performances since he was a teenager and has won a number of awards.

Burnley born and bred Alan, is a father of three with four grandchildren and one great grandchild.

A retired electrician Alan spent several years working at the former Burnley Paper Mill.

And while his family have been making sure he is safe and has what he needs, Alan has also been touched by the generosity of people in the community who have put themselves forward to help.

He said: "I received a card through the door from a neighbouring couple with their name and phone number and a message to say to get in touch if there was anything I needed.

"We may be facing the worst of times but this is bringing out the very best in some people."