Swindon residents urged to be 'sensible and pragmatic' with Easter celebrations
Greatest Hits Radio has caught-up with the town's Director of Public Health
Last updated 1st Apr 2021
With the Easter weekend almost underway, people across Swindon are being encouraged to celebrate in a "sensible and pragmatic" manner over the coming days.
The town's Director of Public Health has issued a stark warning to residents, amid concerns that the four day weekend could lead to a rise in local COVID-19 cases.
The fears are largely due to this double bank-holiday coming hot on the heels of some lockdown restrictions easing.
Since Monday 29 March, people across England have been allowed to meet in groups of up to six outside, including in private gardens.
Outdoor sport has resumed, meaning that most tennis courts and golf clubs are open once again.
The government's 'Stay at Home' mantra has also been replaced with 'Stay Local', indicating there is slightly more freedom to travel.
Should Swindon residents be easing lockdown?
This renewed nationwide optimism comes despite some concerning statistics for Swindon.
According to the latest government data, the town's COVID case rate is more than double that of the South West.
Over the past week, 69.3 per 100,000 have tested positive for the virus in Swindon. The regional average over the same period is 28.9, with England's figure being 53.5.
Looking at the evidence, should Swindon residents be meeting their families and friends outside this weekend?
WATCH: The town's Director of Public Health has addressed the issue with our reporter Matt Hutchinson:
'Phenomenal' vaccine roll-out across Swindon
Amid the challenges that inevitably follow the easing of lockdown, the roll-out of Swindon's COVID-19 vaccination continues to progress.
More than 99,000 residents have now received their first dose of a Coronavirus jab, in the area covered by Swindon Borough Council.
That amounts to almost half of the town's entire population - the vaccination programme was launched locally in mid-December.
Steve Maddern believes the jabs are starting to have a tangible impact, protecting the town's most vulnerable people.
The Director of Public Health says the local COVID case rate for over 60s is "starting to tail off".
"It's a phenomenal piece of work ... not just for Swindon, but across the world," he told Greatest Hits.
"But we're not taking our foot off the pedal, we still need to keep going.
"Those people that are eligible, please do take the opportunity. If invited, have your vaccine".