You have shown such strength
May I extend my good wishes to all Perthshire
Advertiser readers for
2021 which, we all hope, in due course, will be a much better year.
Meantime, things continue to be really tough and I don’t underestimate the level of anxiety which everyone is feeling.
Life is grim across the board right now and it is painfully obvious that ongoing sacrifices have to be made.
In response, we need to replicate the same stoicism and community spirit shown in 2020.
I can well understand people’s frustration, anger and confusion following the decision to tell us to stay at home, especially as we had just received some better news about the vaccines.
However, the reports from doctors and nurses on the COVID wards speak for themselves and the clinical evidence which was shared last week with MSPs at Holyrood in terms of rapidly increasing infection rates of COVID and hospital pressures was stark.
So, to anyone who doubts the need for lockdowns, we need to be realistic about the challenge we are facing.
COVID continues to be very dangerous and we need to understand that.
In recent days, we know the vaccine roll-out has been working well and once again we have seen the same resilience in our local communities.
People have been digging deep, as have our young people whose schooling is yet further disrupted, generous assistance has been offered by shopkeepers, farmers and local delivery networks and there are so many examples of neighbours looking out for each other.
I am so impressed by the stories I have heard.
We have proved that we can cope with lockdowns and strict restrictions, however harsh they may be and however much COVID seeks to undermine our physical and mental wellbeing.
I know there will be some very difficult days ahead when it’s a real challenge to take exercise, ensure we eat well and try to keep in touch with relatives and friends.
Last year, the immense community spirit and kindness shown throughout Perth and Kinross was a major boost to people’s morale. It is this feeling of helping each other and looking out for one another that will guide us through what will undoubtedly be difficult moments in the days and months ahead.
May I end by thanking all those across our health services, care services, education and local community groups for all they are doing to ensure that this deadly disease will finally be under control.