Rat warning for closed firms

NUMBERS of rat infestations in empty and closed buildings in the UK has reached “biblical levels” as pest controllers warn landlords and building owners to check premises for infestations well before lockdown restrictions ease.

The big worry is when shops, restaurants and offices are unlocked in preparation for openings over the next few months, that business owners are going to discover fairly advanced infestations of rats and mice said Jenny Rathbone from Pest.co.uk

LEICESTERSHIRE Police and Crime Commissioner Lord Willy Bach has welcomed Home Office funding worth more than £860k to bolster the coronavirus enforcement response across the county.

Policing Minister Kit Malthouse has announced a £60m funding pot for PCCS nationally - £58m to support the wider pressures brought by the pandemic and to help maintain coronavirus enforcement activity and £2m for enforcing new quarantine rules at airports in affected areas.

Leicestershire’s grant, worth £862,448, will help cover the costs of increased workforce demands for the force during the health crisis, enforcement of coronavirus regulations and improvements to ensure the police estate remains Covid-secure.

Willy Bach said: “Police forces have been at the forefront of national efforts to protect our communities and stem the spread of this awful disease. This funding recognises the part our hardworking officers have played taking on this additional role while also protecting their communities from the threat of crime.

“We remain at a critical stage of the health crisis and this funding will ensure we continue to deliver whatever resources and enforcement are necessary to save lives and keep people safe during lockdown and beyond when the restrictions gradually begin to ease. I would like to thank local people for continuing to support our efforts and would urge everyone to remain at home and follow hygiene advice.”