Town prepares for lockdown - part two

Faced with a rising tide of infections and hospital admissions nationally, the countrywide lockdown will come into effect despite North Kesteven having one of the lowest infection rates in the county and the rest of England. It means people will be expected to work from home, with non-essential businesses to close including hospitality and leisure. But schools will stay open and the furlough scheme will be extended.

North Kesteven District Council Leader Coun Richard Wright said: “While a second lockdown is something we’ve all worked incredibly hard to avoid, cases have risen and this is the situation we now face together.

“Lockdown will significantly impact local businesses and our teams are on hand to offer help, including our Business Advisor for those in need of assistance in understanding the restrictions and our Environmental Health Team for example where there are queries around takeaway and delivery of food. We will share further information for businesses, including any updates on grant funding, as it is made available.

“I’d urge everyone to adhere to lockdown and its restrictions, keep following the guidance and remember to do the basics. The stark reality is that if we don’t, and the infection rate fails to fall to a more manageable level, then it is inevitable that the Government will have to consider either tighter measures or an extended period of lockdown.

“I’m sure we’d all prefer as short a period of lockdown as possible and be able to see our hospitality and leisure business fully open and look forward to at least some form of Christmas celebration with family and loved ones.”

Lincolnshire Police will again be expected to ensure the public are following the rules and a spokesman said: “We will engage with the Government as new regulations are developed and will provide guidance on policing regulations to officers and staff.”

Charitable support groups are also gearing up to help those in need.

This year’s Remembrance Sunday commemorations and Bonfire Night will be further curtailed by the restrictions and the planned Christmas Market, to be held in the grounds of Leadenham House this month, has also been postponed.

Organiser William Reeve said: “We are planning to announce a two-week postponement to December 13. This is obviously a move that is highly contingent on how the situation develops, but we feel it leaves some time for an extension to the lockdown, while any later would probably be too late for a Christmas Market.”

Sleaford Methodist Church has also cancelled its annual Christmas Tree Festival.