Crucial we continue to follow the rules

Since my last column, we have seen our region begin the gradual easing of lockdown and make the first tentative steps towards normality.

The rule of six has returned, allowing some gatherings outside or in private gardens, while many people across the North-East have welcomed the partial reopening of some shops, as well as pubs and restaurants.

I want to thank everybody across Sunderland and South Tyneside for their efforts so far.

It’s been a difficult year but the support you have shown us has been incredible.

The overwhelming majority of people have complied with the restrictions and I’m sure everyone is looking forward to enjoying more socialising with family and friends over the coming weeks and months – hopefully in some warmer weather!

However, I’d like to stress that now is not the time for complacency and would ask everyone to remain responsible.

Remember that, though exciting as these changes are, the slight easing of the rules is not a full return to normal life.

It’s imperative that we all continue to follow the rules and do everything that we can in order to keep ourselves and others in our communities safe.

From a policing perspective, officers have been out on extra patrols in beauty spots across the force where increased numbers of family and friends have been meeting up.

We have also been working hard to tackle any pockets of anti-social behaviour and to ensure the safe reopening of our night-time economy.

We have also been continuing to work with our local authority partners in their enforcement of the restrictions relating to shops, pubs and restaurants.

I hope that you all stay safe, and that we can look forward to the brighter months ahead.