Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Milan lockdown: ‘It’s like a zombie movie’
AN Arbroath woman in self-isolation near M i la n says l i fe h a s become “surreal” – but moments of joy are breaking the loneliness of lockdown.
Cally Robertson, from Timmergreens, moved to the Italian city four years ago to teach. She has been confined to her home as part of Italy’s efforts to halt the spread of the disease.
The former Arbroath High pupil was put on lockdown just under a week ago, and expects to be shut in for much longer.
She described the experience as “surreal”, saying: “It’s like something from a movie – like a zombie movie.
“The first night we were on lockdown, police were out patrolling in their cars with sirens and loudspeakers telling people not to leave the house. I’ve never been aware of the streets so quiet before.
“It happened really fast.” While mass gatherings have been banned, Cally’s community is finding incredible ways to lift everyone’s spirits.
She said: “On Friday, a thing was sent around on social media, which said if you have a musical instrument you should go out and play it on your balcony at 6pm. It was great, it was like a city-wide orchestra.
“On Saturday at noon, we all went on our balconies and clapped for the hospital staff who are doing a really great job.
“Last night, I also heard lots of noise, so I went out to see what was going on.
“There were loads of people all on their balconies with flashing lights and lasers and all that. It was like a big rave.
“I found out later they were doing it because a satellite picture was being taken.”
Nevertheless, Cally is keen for the lockdown to end and for life to return to normal.
She said: “Every day there’s something new in the news and we all get it at the same time. Schools are supposed to go back in April, but most people see it continuing until the start of May. All we really want is for this to be over.”
Cally’s parents recently visited her, and left just one day before the region went on lockdown. They are now both selfisolating at home in Arbroath.
The 30-year-old has also issued advice to Scotland, saying: “People need to not panic, just be sensible. Listen to the advice and just watch the news. You have to just take it day by day.
“Everyone should just be sensible and know the facts.”