Our ‘brilliant’ community spirit can help us overcome this challenge, says Keighley’s town mayor
KEIGHLEY’S mayor says he is confident the town’s “brilliant community spirit” will help see it through the coronavirus crisis.
Councillor Peter Corkindale was speaking this week as sweeping new measures to combat the spread of the disease were introduced – and the number of cases across the district entered double figures.
He said he and fellow town councillors would do everything possible to support communities.
And he is urging people to fully comply with the tough regulations announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Councillor Corkindale said the move – ordering people to stay at home except for shopping for basic necessities, daily exercise, any medical need and travelling to and from essential work – is impacting on everyone’s lives, but was necessary.
“Late March is normally the time of year when our attention starts to turn towards the first signs of spring – Easter is on the horizon and the clocks go forward giving us all more daylight to enjoy with our friends and family,” he said.
“This March is clearly very different – instead our attention is drawn to our loved ones, neighbours and those most vulnerable in our community as we all tackle the outbreak of Covid-19 (coronavirus).
“I know that for many of you this is a very uncertain time and there is likely to be little I can say to ease those worries or concerns.
“However, what I can say is that I – along with all Keighley town councillors – will do whatever we can to support the amazing communities we serve.
“It is often said that in the worst of times you see the best in people and this unprecedented time is no different. Each day I read online or see on the news how ordinary people are going to extraordinary lengths to help complete strangers.
“I’d also like to pay tribute to our incredible NHS staff and other ‘frontline’ workers who are doing an amazing job.”
Councillor Corkindale said anyone keen to volunteer to help in any way during the emergency can call Bradford Council, which is setting-up a volunteers’ co-ordination base, on 01274 431000 and leave their details.
He added: “None of us know how long this current crisis will last, but we should all heed the words of the Prime Minister and follow the advice of the medical experts.
“The town council will support the efforts of Bradford Council in whatever way we can to ensure the most vulnerable in our community get the help they need.
“I urge all residents of Keighley to look after yourselves, look after your family and look after your neighbours.
“With our brilliant community spirit and some personal sacrifices, I have no doubt we can overcome this challenge.”