What a joyful moment to celebrate this week, when William Shakespeare became the first to receive the coronavirus vaccine in Warwickshire. While the link with his 456-year-old name sake was not lost on the world, with “Two Gentlemen of Corona” trending on social media, it was nonetheless a poignant reminder of the other trials and tribulations our communities have endured and overcome down the centuries. 

We’re disappointed to report that this week our Covid infection rate has increased from 106 to 123 cases per 100,000 residents. This rise in infection levels clearly demonstrates that it will be some months before we can drop our guard. It is particularly important that over the Christmas holiday we remain vigilant to not only protect our loved ones, but avoid a further lockdown in the new year. 

We’ll promptly share news on the morning of Thursday 17 December of the review of our Tier classification, with any changes coming into effect the next day. Regardless of this decision let’s all continue to follow the Government guidance on wearing face coverings, hand washing and remaining socially distant. Together, we will prevail, but now is not the time to ease-up on our efforts regardless of which Tier we find ourselves in at the end of the week.

The grant scheme launched just a week ago to support our hospitality sector, has had nearly a thousand applications from our local businesses.  So far, almost half have received their grant payments, totalling £400k. Find out more about the grant scheme and how to apply.

Now is the time for us to support our local businesses, so let’s visit our vibrant town centres - every pound that we spend supports vital local jobs. Don’t forget when you visit our towns, we’re offering free parking throughout December to ensure your visit is as safe and enjoyable as possible.

Through to Christmas our weekly markets at Kenilworth and Warwick continue as well as and the Leamington Yuletide markets every Sunday. Larger than expected crowds visited Leamington last weekend, particularly around the Warwick Street food outlets. Our Environmental Protection Officers will be on-hand this weekend to reassure visitors that the COVID-19 guidelines are in place, so we can safely visit for all the Christmas essentials.

During the pandemic, we’ve managed to make great progress supporting the homeless people in our district. Not only have we provided accommodation for all but four homeless people, we’re now in a position to extend this important service. Our hostel at William Wallsgrove House is being reconfigured to now provide a supportive environment for those moving to more permanent accommodation, so will temporarily close from 11 December for renovation.

Let’s all take special care to look after our health and wellbeing during this time of year. Please take time to check-in with family, friends and neighbours who might be vulnerable and need extra support. The Covid-19 Community directory gives helpful information and a call to 0800 4081447 will access support for the clinically extremely vulnerable. Remember too that the council’s Community Emergency Recovery Fund is still available for charitable organisations which have adapted or increased their support services to help out during the pandemic. 

Thinking ahead to the new year and brighter days, we will be launching 'Choose How You Move in Warwick District'. This fun scheme encourages us all to walk, run, cycle or use public transport when visiting the town centres; earning 'BetterPoints' which can be redeemed on the high street at a range of local shops, or donated to charity. So why not join us in starting the new year with positive resolution that will improve our health, wellbeing as well as boost the climate emergency action plans to reduce our carbon footprint.

Keep smiling and stay safe.

Cllr Andrew Day
Leader, Warwick District Council

Chris Elliott
Chief Executive, Warwick District Council