Warning not to forget restrictions over bank holiday
People looking forward to a bank holiday night out after months of Covid lockdown are being urged by police and health officials to stick to the government restrictions.
The weekend marks the first bank holiday of the year where pubs and restaurants have been able to welcome customers – albeit outside.
Julian Moss, Deputy Chief Constable of West Mercia Police, has urged people to take a cautious approach to their new-found freedom.
He said: "With lockdown easing and with hopefully some warmer weather to enjoy, we’re all looking forward to seeing friends and family again, not to mention being able to visit some of the glorious locations this country has to offer, and in the near future being able to attend some fun events, with the Euros, outdoor festivals and summer parties all on the cards.
“But with all those great, wonderful, exciting things we’ve all missed, comes responsibility. Not just continuing to adhere to the regulations to ensure we don’t undo all the hard work we’ve done and move back into restrictions, but also responsibility for our own welfare and that of our friends and family.
“So please, if you are planning a night out – and I know it’s tempting after this past – be careful about how much you drink."
The warning comes amid a spike of Covid cases in Shropshire after 54 cases in the week up to April 22 – 24 more than the week before. The rise is believed to be largely in the Oswestry and Ellesmere area and linked to an outbreak in Bala.
Telford has seen cases remaining stable – actually dropping by four, with 41 in the seven days up to April 25 – but there is increased emphasis on testing in the Hadley and Leegomery area after it was discovered that a number of infections involve a mutated strain of the virus.
Avoid
The rate for both areas remains comparatively low at 23 in Telford and 16 in Shropshire. In Powys it is currently 10.
Liz Noakes, Director of Public Health in Telford & Wrekin, urged caution with expected warm weather and the bank holiday.
She also advised people to avoid popular public places at busy times.
She said: “Our borough’s infection rate remains stable, which is re-assuring and we want to thank everyone for playing their part.
"We want this to continue and for everybody to stay safe.
"We have come so far and it’s really important for everyone to continue to follow Covid-19 guidance, so as not to go back to higher case numbers and tougher restrictions again.
"Warmer weather and the Bank Holiday coming up will mean people want to enjoy it.
"However, we are advising everyone to please be cautious, the virus is still with us. Don’t risk getting it or spreading it without knowing – one in three people have no symptoms.
"Only meet outdoors in groups of six or up to two households, avoid popular public sites at peak time, maintain social distancing from anyone you do not live with, wear a face covering in public indoor areas (unless you are exempt) and remember to regularly wash or sanitise your hands.
"Make these basic rules part of your daily life – so as to live safely with Covid-19 and protect yourself and your loved others."
