Easter message from the Leader

I want to wish everyone in the borough a Happy Easter (and a happy Pesach for those who have started marking Passover) even though we are facing an Easter and Passover like no other.

Both are traditionally a time for families and friends to get together but  coronavirus means we have to spend it apart. It’s going to be really tough and sad for all of us but it’s necessary in these challenging times.

I am gladdened that even in this dark period of our lives, people in the borough are being kind to each other and supporting each other especially our most vulnerable residents.

I would like to say a big thank to all our Council staff, our NHS workers, our police, public transport staff, the borough’s teachers and teaching support staff such as cleaners and everyone who are keeping essential services running like food and medicines supplies.

They will all be working over the holidays to care for us, keep us well, keep us moving, keep us safe and keep us fed.

I want to praise our local volunteers who are supporting efforts to get us through this difficult time. Rossendale folk really do pull together in a crisis. We really do have great community spirit here.

I want to also say a thank you to residents for their efforts in the government instructions of regular hand washing, only going out when you absolutely need to and keeping two metres apart from people you don’t live with.

Finally, as we head into the Bank Holiday weekend, I want to once again urge residents to continue to do the right thing.  The message is simple: Stay at Home, Protect the NHS, Save lives.

I wish everyone a safe and peaceful few days.