‘Thank you’

Residents praised for ‘absolutely amazing’ response as number of covid cases drops in wake of thousands getting tested and vaccinated in wake of Moorlands outbreak

SCHOOLS and local communities in Leek and Cheddleton have been praised for their support of local Covid surge testing, as part of efforts to manage a major outbreak of the Delta Variant of Concern.

Around 7,000 people were tested in schools, at community pop-ups and in door-to-door testing last week.

In addition, around 2,000 people in Leek and Cheddleton had their first coronavirus vaccination – making up 50 per cent of all Staffordshire Moorlands residents who had the first dose in the last fortnight.

And the number of positive cases has now fallen sharply.

Councillor Sybil Ralphs, leader of Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, said: “The response we’ve seen from people in Leek and Cheddleton has been fantastic and I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who has taken a test, had a vaccine at the pop-up clinic and helped coordinate the magnificent partnership response to managing this outbreak.

“It’s been a terrific effort which has shown great results. But we cannot be complacent and I would urge everyone across the Moorlands to keep following the safety guidance that’s there to keep us all safe. We’re making good progress so let’s not risk undoing it now.”

Dr Johnny Mcmahon, Staffordshire’s cabinet support member for Public Health, said: “The response from people living and working in Leek and Cheddleton has been absolutely amazing and has made a real difference in helping us manage this outbreak.

“I would like to thank all those who came forward to get tested and also had the vaccine if they were eligible at the pop-up clinic at Leek Moorlands Hospital.

“This gave us the best chance of stopping the spread of infection and reducing the risk to everyone who lives, works or goes to school in these two areas.”

More than 120 Covid cases were linked to the outbreak – with the vast majority being the Delta Variant.

Testing took place across schools, at Brough Park Leisure Centre, at Sainsburys and Leek Market Place, as well as door-to-door testing, to reach as many people as possible.

The county council worked with partners in the NHS, at Staffordshire Moorlands District Council and the fire service to promote and deliver the surge testing on the ground.

Dr Richard Harling, Staffordshire County Council’s, director for health and care, said: “This proactive action, together with the support of schools and the wider communities has helped bring down the case rate, but it is a timely reminder that covid is still with us.

“I would appeal to everyone, but younger adults in particular, to get tested regularly, get vaccinated as soon as possible and to continue to stick to the rules.”

People can find out more at www. staffordshire.gov.uk/leektesting