Editorial:

We are beginning to think ahead in the Village as to what things will look like in the post lock down world. And it is very challenging! Rachael and I have been discussing how the Village Hall can maintain its safety standards in the face of this virulent viral infection. Can dance classes ever resume? What about lectures and meetings? How would they work? Clearly we need to think about distancing in the Hall, but what about the corridor or the toilets? How will that work? We have some ideas and will be doing the research on this over the next couple of weeks.

Similarly the Church is planning for the point where re-opening is permitted. Going to Church will be a very different experience indeed, but we know that the ministry team can be innovative. Thoughts at the moment include a one way system in and out of the Church, pews marked out to ensure that people stay well apart, changes to the services. But then there are questions to be considered about shared hymn books, communion, the tea/coffee after the service.

Many pubs are also thinking this through, but that is an even bigger challenge. Think about our own pub. It's atmosphere comes from being cosy with lots of people crowded in, giving that buzz on a Friday and Saturday night. What will this look like in a post-lock down world? Honestly, I have no idea.

In each of these cases it is local residents taking responsibility for the safety of others. That is a big ask and we need to share that responsibility. As the plans are drawn up for each of the venues we'll be publishing them for comment so that we can gather input from anyone with expertise or views from around the Village. They are our facilities and we need to take responsibility for them.

Watch this space

Birthdays:

Happy 78th Birthday to Helen's Mum, Inez Challinor.

Nationally:

351 deaths were reported by the Government yesterday taking us to 36,393 across the UK. The number of new lab confirmed cases was up significantly at 3,287. However, according to the Covid-19 symptom tracker, another 9,900 people across the UK reported new Covid-19 symptoms. This is up again.

Locally:

In Northamptonshire another 9 cases were reported yesterday with the specimen dates being spread back over the last few days. The total number of cases is now 1,373. If this data is correct, it is surprising drop for two days in a row.

2 new infections were reported in East Northamptonshire yesterday. But take a look at Bedford!

Daily links (all verified):

And finally . . .

As families travel to see their loved ones, not all is well in isolation land...

Stay Alert, Control the Virus, Save Lives