Calderdale tier 3 restrictions: Council leader has his say on Matt Hancock's announcement

Coun Tim Swift was responding to the Government’s review decision that Calderdale will remain in Tier 3 – Very High Alert – restrictions.

Coun Swift said: “We know this will be a disappointment for many residents and businesses, especially so close to Christmas.

“We want anyone who is struggling to know that they are not alone and support is still available – for those most at risk, for those self-isolating, and for businesses that have had to close or have been badly affected by the pandemic.

“We need to keep working together under these restrictions because the COVID-19 rate in Calderdale is still too high – eight times higher than it was at the end of August.

“However, our rate is continuing to come down, and we thank you all for your help with this,” he said.

Coun Swift (Lab, Town) urged Calderdale people to keep focusing on keeping each other safe during the festive period and in the new year ahead – with a brighter 2021 very likely, as contact tracing is producing its best results in Calderdale and rollout of COVID-19 vaccination has begun.

“It’s a time of celebration, but the best way we can show love and care is by sticking to the three big things we can all do to protect each other – keep contact with other people to a minimum, wear a face covering indoors with people we don’t live with, and self-isolate when necessary.

“Let’s also focus on a brighter 2021 with hope and determination.

“We’ve come a long way since March and have achieved so much.

“Last week our local contact tracers contacted every person referred to them – a 100 per cent contact rate is outstanding.

“The continued success of our local test and trace service, enhanced community testing, the vaccine rollout and major projects to boost our economy give us plenty to be optimistic about.

“Let’s keep sticking together with the kindness and compassion which got us through the most difficult times,” he said.