'We're checking on people in the heat - some haven't been out since the first lockdown'
Concern is growing about elderly people - and those self isolating at home - in the current heatwave.
Last updated 21st Jul 2021
Parts of the Midlands, South West, and South Wales have a Met Office amber warning for 'extreme heat' in force until the end of Thursday.
The mayor of Minehead councillor Paul Bolton is going door-to-door to check on those stuck at home as part of his regular meals delivery service.
He said: "Me and my partner have taken over the meals on wheels from a local provider who ceased doing it at the start of lockdown.
"On a daily basis we're going out, we're taking meals out to a lot of the elderly people around Minehead and when we visit we make sure that they're drinking enough and just keeping themselves hydrated at the moment and if we've got any concerns we'll refer that to the nurses or a doctor to maybe pay a visit just to make sure.
"It's not a great time to be at home and unfortunately a lot of our elderly people, some of the ones that we're doing the meals on wheels for, haven't been out since the first lockdown - they're still afraid to come out their houses so yeah it's a real problem at the moment."
Mayor Bolton says the town is also ensuring people stay apart on the beach to reduce any Covid spread, adding: "Although everything's unlocked we're still trying to mitigate the effects.
"Obviously the virus is still out there so we're still advising people to wear masks where possible and keep to the social distancing.
"The council's installed cameras on the beach here so it can be monitored to make sure the beach isn't too packed and people can log onto an app and see how many people are on the beach and make an informed decision as to whether they feel it's safe for them to come or not."
Somerset County Council Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing Clare Paul added: “It is lovely to see the sunshine out, but I urge you to enjoy the sunshine in a safe way. Keep an eye on anyone you know who might be struggling to cope particularly older people and those with underlying health conditions. Make sure they are keeping their home cool, drinking plenty of water and not doing any strenuous activity – avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day.
“With lockdown measures easing this week you may be looking forward to getting out and enjoying the sunshine. If you’re out and about, please remember you can still catch and spread Coronavirus – we encourage you to continue to social distance, wear a face mask in enclosed spaces and wash your hands regularly. To stay safe from the heat, apply sunscreen regularly, stay hydrated, and protect your head from the sun by wearing a sunhat.”