Statement from the Mayor of Deal

Published: 16 March 2021

As we hopefully turn the corner in the fight against coronavirus, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank all those who have been working so hard in our community over the last year to support the vulnerable members of our community as well as those who have volunteered in so many ways. It is reassuring to know that the most vulnerable members of our community have been supported, from getting help for food deliveries and prescriptions to much else besides, for example in making sure that people are able to get to vaccination centres.

Thanks also to the many voluntary agencies as well as staff here at the Town Council who have played their part in what is a collective effort. We also remember the heroic efforts of those in the NHS locally who are caring for the victims of the pandemic as well as those in our local care agencies and care homes who have had to care for people when it has not been possible to have visitors in the normal way.

I am also very conscious of other groups in our community whose lives have been turned upside down, not least our school students as well as parents and guardians who have had to adapt not just to home working but to home schooling as well. Our businesses and shops have had to put their livelihood 'on hold' and I am relieved that with Spring coming we will be able to open our local economy and welcome visitors back to our town. Do look on dedicated coronavirus web page  for a list of the various sources of help which can be accessed.

But to stay safe we must continue to be careful, even if we are seeing a welcome dip in the number of cases locally. We simply cannot afford to relax our guard and we need to be vigilant over all the safety measures in place.

Tragically some members of our community have lost their lives during the pandemic and I would like to extend our sympathy and concern for all those whose lives have been touched by the loss of a loved one. In time to come we might want to reflect on how the members of our community who have lost their lives and can be suitably remembered.

Finally, do stay safe - a better future is round the corner.

With best wishes

Cllr Eileen Rowbotham
Town Mayor of Deal