Councillors ‘thank you’ tocommunities

In recent weeks we have seen a huge number of people stepping forward who are ready and willing to volunteer.

This covers a broad range of support: delivering shopping, collecting prescriptions, setting up community larders, supporting food banks, providing transport to medical appointments, dog walking and just being a friendly, supportive and understanding voice on the phone when needed.

All of these things are making a genuine difference at this difficult and unprecedented time.

We have also heard of many examples of individuals and groups doing that little bit extra to make life more bearable for people who are shielding, self-isolating or who live alone: from delivering chocolate Easter bunnies to older residents, and recording Sunday church services for people to watch on social media, to residents leaving gifts for their older neighbours on Mother’s Day when they were not able to see their own families.

Local groups and organisations throughout Perth and Kinross have been united in delivering invaluable services, and their commitment to making a difference to vulnerable people in their local area is absolutely phenomenal.

We would also like to thank everyone who continues to follow government advice by staying home wherever possible; only making essential journeys for work, food or to collect medication; and taking daily exercise while observing social distancing.

By protecting yourself and your families, you are also helping to keep other people in our communities healthy and well.

There is still some way to go before the peak of the coronavirus outbreak is reached, and our priority will continue to be protecting and preserving people’s lives.

Your support for all the efforts being made to tackle this current crisis is greatly appreciated - together we will make it through this period and come out stronger.

Thank you all and stay safe.

All elected members of Perth and Kinross Council this terrible crisis – which even struck down Boris Johnson, the leader of our country – churches being closed means one comfort is absent in so many lives.

But it is beneficial to the nation that church services are broadcast on Sunday mornings, with words and music.

Earlier this month, ‘Reflections at the Quay’ on the BBC was so uplifting, especially through the wonderful singing of Karen Matheson – who sang for the country as part of the small service hosted by two ministers.

At a time of crisis, as has been the case in times past, words and music play such a comforting and important role.

Bless you Karen.

Thomas Brown

Garry Place

Bankfoot