COLUMN: The weekend’s coastal visitors were irresponsible and selfish, we need to adjust to a new kind of normal

The irresponsible, selfish people who came to Skegness and surrounding areas over this weekend haven’t just put themselves at risk. They’ve also put our local NHS and the local population at risk.

And worse still, their idiotic actions have risked the Coronavirus pandemic spreading further and lasting longer for all of us.

There’s no doubt in my mind that we will get through these challenging times, but we will come out better if people follow the clear government guidance.

Most pertinently for us that means acknowledging that going on holiday is not ‘essential travel’ and therefore should be put on hold.

Locally, that will allow communities to form the vital groups that will be needed to support each other and in particularly the most vulnerable – many people will not be severely affected by Covid-19 itself, and will be able to volunteer their own efforts.

The generosity of individuals and businesses has already been remarkable, but as we adjust to a new kind of normal it will be all the more important.

Lincolnshire is blessed with wide open spaces and generous people – it’s ideal for the more solitary existence some will have to lead for the next few weeks.

But that shouldn’t change the central message: self-isolate if necessary, wash your hands and follow the government guidance at gov.uk/coronavirus