COVENTRY City Council’s leader George Duggins today (Wednesday Sept 23) thanked local residents for their “hard work and sacrifice” in battling Covid-19 since lockdown restrictions began six months ago today.
Lockdown in the UK started on March 23, with restrictions on socialising, the introduction of social distancing and the closure of many businesses. Observer photographer Jon Mullis captured the stark reality of lockdown life in those first days in this photo gallery.
Coun Duggins said: “Those early days of lockdown seem so long ago, and so much has happened since then. Our way of life has changed, and I know many have lost loved ones, had health worries, and suffered hardship. Our thoughts are with you.
“Yet, we should also be proud of all we have achieved as a city.
“I have been delighted by the way our communities, organisations, Council teams and businesses have joined together as One Coventry to support each other and give extra support to those who need it. Operation Shield was an amazing success, with so much done in a short space of time to protect the most vulnerable.
“I know it has been hard, but we have got through those first six months as a community should – by doing all we can to protect and help one another.
“Thank you to everyone for all you have done so far, especially our heroes of the NHS, our carers, all front line staff, including our city council staff all key workers who work to look after us and our city.
“Let us honour the hard work and sacrifice of the past six months by doing all we can to combat the rise in numbers of Covid-19 in Coventry. This includes following the now familiar messages of wearing a face covering when appropriate, hand washing and social distancing. Together we can then look forward to better times ahead.”
For all the latest news and guidance on COVID-19, go to: coventry.gov.uk/coronavirus
