Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev's Column" for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (Published on Wednesday 13th May 2020) below:
Lockdown
The next stage in our fight against the Coronavirus has begun, yet victory is far from won.
Falling infection rates have not happened by chance or accident. They have been the result of hard work by our NHS and social care workers, plus the whole of our community getting behind the restrictions necessary to cut the infection rate.
Our region has avoided the worst so far and some restrictions can now be eased, yet complacency could cost us dear, hence it is vital we follow the latest guidance. As the Prime Minister outlined any further changes depend on the crucial “R” rate, how fast the virus reproduces, falling further.
As a nation we have achieved a lot in this fight, but now must stay alert to keep it in check and ensure there is not a second peak.
VE Day 75
The parades of veterans, the big concerts and the street parties planned over many months were cancelled by the measures necessary to tackle the latest deadly threat to face our nation.
Yet this did not stop the celebrations to mark an achievement which changed the course of history and ensured the freedoms we enjoy today. The replaying of Winston Churchill’s speech declaring Victory in Europe exactly 75 years to the moment he gave it was a reminder of the feelings many felt that day. A victory snatched from the jaws of total defeat a five years earlier, when at times losses had mounted and some argued it might be time to pack it in. Instead they set about the task before them and won.
There are still a few in our bay who served during those momentous times, although for many families the day meant being thankful for what our Parents or Grandparents did. In my case I thought of my two Grandfathers. One was badly injured in the North African Desert, the other took part in the famous Malta Convoy.
Thankfully there has not been another conflict on the scale of the Second World War, yet our freedoms today are still reliant on those who, like our Grandparents, answer our nation’s call. In remembering the victory of 75 year ago, we should also celebrate the service of our armed forces today.
Never Give Up, Never Despair
It is apt to finish on a reminder of how in today’s difficult times we can take inspiration from the work, sacrifice and achievements of a previous generation in our bay.
They faced dark days when all seemed lost, but pulled through, as will we from our present trials thanks to the modern-day heroes who are doing their duty.
Surgery Times
Based on current advice relating to the Coronavirus I have cancelled my regular advice surgeries and drop-in sessions at my East St Office until further notice.
I hope to restart them as soon as possible, but in the meantime a telephone call surgery appointment can be arranged. Please note due to the current level of demand these telephone surgeries are for urgent personal matters, such as welfare, immigration, problems accessing support and benefits, rather than to discuss policy or the wider situation nationally.
You can either email me at [email protected] or leave a message on 01803 214989 and we will get back to you as quickly as possible.
