Market Rasen Mayor’s seasonal message

We had only just finished taking down Christmas lights and decorations endured a very wet February, enjoyed the celebrations of Love Market Rasen Race day, which was delayed by the bad weather, and then the country was hit by the pandemic that is COVID-19, Coronavarus.

Nothing of this magnitude has been experienced by most people alive today.

It has disrupted lives and education, caused chaos to businesses and working practices, put enormous pressure on the NHS and emergency services and affected tens of thousands of bereaved families.

We have been in and out of lockdown, placed under Tier restrictions all to try and control this terrible disease.

And, we are still fighting.

Until recently West Lindsey had one of the lowest levels of infection in the country. Sadly, that is not the case now and we still need to continue to be extra cautious and vigilant about what we do and where we go.

However, as a town, Market Rasen has carried on.

I would like to thank all those who have helped keep things going through the spring, summer, autumn and now into the winter months.

Our doctors surgery and local hospitals have done a fantastic job; the schools have adapted to remote learning and supported the children beyond the call; the essential supply shops, from the supermarkets to the mini-markets and independent retailers, have kept their staff employed, and remained open to keep us fed and watered and supplied with essentials.

The bin men have kept the town clean and postal workers kept us in touch with others, often delivering vital packages.

But, I must not forget the army of unsung hero volunteers who have given a monumental amount of time, over 10 months, to help those in isolation, shielding or simply too afraid to venture outside.

You, ladies and gentlemen have delivered prescriptions, made and delivered lunches, collated foodbanks and delivered literally thousands of pounds worth of support.

You know who you are,… I see you every week, several times - THANK YOU.

And then there is our public, our community. I have never seen such generosity.

Our foodbanks, whether mainstream or in our schools and churches, have been so greatly supported by you.

Thank you all.

We also lost some good friends,and colleagues, along with their stature in our community, this year:

Councillor Malcolm Parish and Councillor Lewis Strange, ‘Doc’ Graham Parry. May you all be remembered for the service that you gave to our community, Thank you, Lest we forget.

As we approach the festive season, I hope there is something everyone can look forward to. I take this opportunity to wish everyone in and around Market Rasen a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Let 2021 be better for us all. Keep distancing and stay safe

Best wishes

John Matthews

Mayor of Market Rasen