Hailsham residents urged to ‘stay vigilant’ following easing of lockdown restrictions

Town mayor Paul Holbrook issued the message on Monday (June 1) and also says he ‘welcomes’ the proposed reopening of shops, with a June 15 target date set.

The mayor said, “Hailsham has done so well over the past two months and I’m extremely proud of those of you who have respected social distancing rules and those who are looking after each other.

“I urge everyone to stay vigilant and continue to follow the advice of health experts as we are not out of the woods yet.”

In the mayor’s weekly message to residents he highlighted that some are still not following social distancing rules and the impact this can have on people.

He said, “It seems not everyone in our community is getting the message. A small minority of people are not observing the regulations, perhaps not realising the impact their decision to flout social distancing measures can have on family, friends and the community - in particular, those who are classed as vulnerable.”

The mayor also touched on the recent issues at the Common Pond beauty spot, where anti-social behaviour has been reported by police.

He said, “The town council is working with the local police about this issue and is urging the public not to misuse the local beauty spot.”

The mayor also addressed the ‘excellent news’ that some non-essential shops and business will be reopening in mid-June.

He said, “It’s excellent news that many shops and businesses will be allowed to reopen in Hailsham. It’s vital for our town centre and local economy, but crucially this will have to be done safely.

“When mid-June comes around, shops will look quite different to what we’ve been used to and operate in new ways whilst the pandemic lives on.”

The mayor said the non-essential businesses which will open include retail shops selling clothes, shoes, books and electronics, and also specialist outlets such as tailors and bakeries.

However, the re-openings depend on the government’s tests being met and only if the retailers are deemed Covid-19 secure.

Mayor Holbrook said, “During all this, safety remains the ultimate priority. Whilst we all want businesses to be able to function, there are some considerable changes all of us need to make in order for that to be possible.

“If we are to benefit from the reopening of our businesses and save them, it’s imperative that we take individual steps to make that possible during these unprecedented times - and safe for everyone into the bargain. Thank you and stay safe everyone.”

Read more: {https://www.eastbourneherald.co.uk/news/transport/eastbourne-teenager-dies-car-crash-2869817

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