Rasen’s response to coronavirus threat praised

In a speech on Monday evening, PM Boris Johnson outlined stricter restrictions on people leaving their homes to slow the spread of Covid-19.

Mr Johnson said that people must now stay at home except for shopping for basic necessities, daily exercise, any medical need and travelling to and from essential work.

His announcement came as the UK death toll reached 335.

In a statement prior to the speech, Mayor of Market Rasen, Coun John Matthews, said: “The last week has been one of the most unprecedented seven days as my time as your Mayor.

“Only last Sunday we enjoyed the celebrations of the Love Market Rasen Raceday.

“Subsequently, we have had to close the Festival Hall to all public events and stop any bookings for private functions for the foreseeable future.

“Our pubs, cafe’s and restaurants are closed.

“All group meetings are now screened and either cancelled or done via video conferencing.

“Our officers are working from home, to safeguard their families and the councillors, who can, are giving even more of their time to maintain a public service.

“Meanwhile, our shop-keepers strive on, to keep us fed and watered.

“The Mattu family on the High Street and on Union Street have their shelves well stocked, the Co-Op is well stocked and Tesco are engaging additional staff.

“Other groups, such as MRAG are doing their bit too.

“The Salvation Army and New Life Church have put additional resources to their respective food-bank operations, and I know are very grateful to the businesses and members of the public who donate so generously.

“I have spent a considerable amount of time in Tesco this week co-ordinating donations for the above.

“What I feel very hard to understand is the greed of some customers and their failure to respect the stores single item limits.

“Furthermore, what I cannot condone is the abusive attitude of a small number of customers to the staff on checkout when they are told that they cannot have so many of one particular item.

“Good people of Market Rasen - this is not acceptable.

“If you need help or support, advice may be available from the Town Council office on 01673 842479.

Ward Member for Market Rasen, District Councillor Stephen Bunney added: “It is really gratifying to see the way that the community has rallied around to support each other during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I am aware of many neighbours, and groups, who are checking on their neighbours, friends and relatives via social media.

“As a result many people have been reassured that people care and are left with a more positive outlook to life.

“It is also important to remember and thank those workers in the key services of health, care, education, bin men and utility providers who have continued to work with their usual dedication and kindness for their clients and the community at large.

“Let’s hope and pray that these positives soon win through, allowing the community to return back to ‘normal’ as soon as we can.”