Mayor ‘doubly reassured’ by Covid-19 vaccine

As predicted, the second lockdown did not lead to the sharp decline in infections and deaths achieved by the first. The Tier 1 precautions did not work, so Chichester, along with most of the UK, finds itself in Tier 2. Strictly on the criteria, we should be in Tier 1.

We also have the dilemma now about what to do at Christmas. My instincts are telling me at my age to stay safe just for this year, yet I long to see my family and grandchildren again.

So what to do this Covid Christmas? I keep harking back to the words of the senior microbiologist at St Richard’s Hospital: if you are in a confined space for more than 15 minutes with someone who has the virus you will probably catch it.

Christmas is the ideal opportunity for the virus to spread, so caution is needed. What, though, about seeing the family? What about everybody’s emotional health? A problem indeed.

Whatever you decide about family visitors this Christmas, it is important for our own wellbeing that we keep Christmas.

If you are able, do put up the tree and decorate it. String it – and the house – with lights. Have a splendid festive meal, indulge yourself and try to forget for a short while the sacrifice we all have made because of Covid-19. Think about the true seasonal message: one of hope and salvation. It has seldom been more appropriate.

One easy choice for me will be to have the vaccine. On social media there has been a lot of misinformation, but we need as many people as possible to be inoculated.

When I worked at ICI I dealt with the regulators and, believe me, the vaccines will not be allowed unless the authorities are absolutely sure they are effective and safe. AstraZeneca has its roots in ICI Pharmaceuticals, so I am doubly reassured.

The mayoress and I are still reluctant to venture out much, but, whenever possible, will go shopping in the City Centre. Drapers’ Yard in the Hornet is well worth a visit and do look out for unique presents produced by Chichester’s talented artists and crafts people.

Thanks to the scientists, the NHS, other frontline workers and the community of Chichester, an end is in sight. Next Christmas we will surely be back to normal.

Before that, however, we must all negotiate the dark winter days of January and February. I expect the news will continue to show more deaths for some time to come. Behind every statistic there is a person and a tragic loss to their nearest and dearest. It remains even more critical that we stick to the rules and support each other.

Finally, thank you to all who generously supported The Mayor’s Hardship Fund

(call 07740 621812). This has now helped many who, as a consequence of the virus, were left with nothing. The need is still increasing and we are actively seeking further

funds.