Volunteers take to the streets to distribute information about avoiding lockdown

Teams were out in force at the weekend with advice and help for residents of three areas that have seen a rise in Covid-19 infections - Milkstone, Kingsway and central Rochdale. Council leader Allen Brett joined councillors, staff and volunteers handing out advice and face masks outside Worldwide Cash and Carry on Station Road, Rochdale. 

Councillor Brett said: "Residents have been brilliant in complying with the advice and guidance. We cannot be complacent and it is vital that everyone plays their part in keeping the virus under control. We are doing all we can to ensure there is no need for a local lockdown, but we need everyone to support us.

"As you may know Rochdale currently has a spike in the number of Coronavirus cases. Although we have not got the highest rates of infection the Rochdale Council has acted quickly to try and prevent us having to move into a new lockdown. The three worst affected wards ae Central, Kingsway and Milkstone and Deeplish."

Residents of Heywood, Middleton, Rochdale including Littleborough and Milnrow are being advised to adhere to the following measures:

• Wear face coverings in shops now - do not wait until 24 July
• Wear face coverings in public as much as possible
• Limit visitors to your home to two people
• Keep two metres apart at all times
• Avoid physical contact with anyone outside your own household, including shaking hands or hugging
• Get tested and isolate if you are told to do so

 

 

Kingsway councillors Shakil Ahmed and Daalat Ali have been visiting local shops, businesses and residents both giving advice and distributing leaflets and face masks.

Councillor Shakil Ahmed said: "Face masks are critically important in helping to control the spread of the virus most importantly in protecting those who are virus free from people who HAVE the virus.

"The council are sending a leaflet to every resident - helping and supporting our most vulnerable. Please do read the leaflet and follow the advice. If we all do this we can prevent another lockdown in Rochdale."

 

 

Councillor Faisal Rana said: "I was out and about in Milkstone on Saturday working with volunteers to spread the essential safety advice to keep the virus in check. It was pleasing to see so many people observing social distancing and wearing masks in shops. Our message to stay safe and stay apart is getting through. 

"The three wards that have seen a spike in infections - Milkstone, Kingsway and Central - are highly populated areas with many extended families living in large households. These areas have to be extremely vigilant and take extra precautions to keep the virus in check. The council is working doubly hard to help stop the spread of Coronavirus."

Local Deeplish and Milkstone councillor Sameena Zaheer said: "The whole community has come together to tackle the increase in Covid-19 infections. It's important that we all support each other and follow the advice to keep well and safe."