... although maybe not on Anglesey
THE leader of Anglesey council says the island’s schools could remain shut until “frightening” Covid-19 transmission rates reduce significantly.
The island bucked the Welsh trend in being the only county to show an increase in cases the week before last.
Council chiefs have issued a plea to residents to respond to the “extremely concerning” situation.
Seven-day Covid-19 case rates up to January 30 fell in every Welsh council area apart from Anglesey, where the rate of new cases per 100,000 people rose from 139.9 to 141.3 despite the ongoing lockdown.
Council chief executive Annwen Morgan said last week: “Less than a fortnight ago, Anglesey had the lowest number of coronavirus cases throughout Wales, but the situation has changed very quickly. On Wednesday alone our local test, track, protect (TTP) team recorded an alarming 35 positive cases. Coronavirus is prevalent across the whole island with cases being confirmed in people of all ages.
“The change here has been startling and despite all our efforts, things do not seem to be improving at present.”
Cllr Llinos Medi said: “The virus is much more prevalent now across Anglesey, with patterns in line with a lack of social distancing and people visiting others outside of their bubble.”
She could not rule out keeping Anglesey’s schools closed despite an expectation that the Welsh Government will allow at least some primary school children to attend from February 22. Cllr Medi said: “Last summer, we decided not to open schools at the same time as the rest of Wales following an outbreak at 2 Sisters in Llangefni and I will do the same thing again if we’re not comfortable that it’s safe to do so.
“I want everyone to know that the safety of children and the school sector is at the forefront of our minds.”
She added: “The current high number of cases is putting a huge amount of pressure on Ysbyty Gwynedd and, sadly, we understand that more Anglesey residents have died. Breaking the rules will only lead to more coronavirus cases and sorrow for other families. I can’t stress enough how important it is for people to follow the Welsh Government guidance to help protect themselves, their family, friends and communities.”
SPLIT dahlia tubers to increase your stock. Make sure to keep a good neck, even a piece of the old stalk, and ensure it has at least one eye on the neck or it won’t sprout. On cut ends where there is flesh exposed, dip the tuber in cinnamon to help it dry out and stop disease.
■ SOW broad beans in pots indoors now for planting outdoors in March and April. A sunny windowsill that doesn’t get too hot or cold greenhouse is ideal for germination.
■ WE’RE still in the bare root planting season so now is the time to plant your roses, trees and shrubs inexpensively.
■ PERENNIALS and ornamental grasses you left over for winter interest can be cut back before new growth starts.
■ IT’S a good tim to mulch your borders.