Westbury and Yockleton Newsletter Issue 213 - April 2020

News items for the Newsletter should go to the Editor, Rita Waters, Dingley Dell, Westbury, SY5 9QX Tel: 01743 884434, email: [email protected] Business adverts and any new businesses wishing to place adverts should also contact the Editor preferably by email. Items for inclusion in the Newsletter must reach me by : for the May 2020 edition : 9am Monday, 20 April 2020 and for the June 2020 edition : 9am Monday, 25 May 2020. Westbury Village Hall Westbury Parish Council : Due to the ongoing CoE Primary School : Due to the situation with the Covid-19 virus, the Clerk is Covid-19 virus situation, the School and Pre-School waiting for relevant legislation to be put in place. are only open for the children of NHS staff and other If and when the Annual Parish Meeting and Annual key workers until further notice. For more Meeting are called, notification will appear on the information, please contact Long Mountain CoE website: http://www.westburyparishcouncil.co.uk/ Primary School on 01743 891320. and in the Newsletter and posters. West Flower Club : Due to the ongoing Westbury WI : Due to the Covid-19 virus, all future situation with the Covid-19 virus, all future meetings meetings and events have been postponed until have been cancelled until further notice. For more further notice. For more information call Jill Jones information call Liz Dawson (01938 570235) or visit: (01743 884414) or Cilla Perry (01743 884950) or [email protected]. Beryl Johnson (01743 884950). Westbury Bowls Club : As usual, will be closed Yockleton Victory Hall for the summer months but - depending upon Yockleton W I : Due to the Covid-19 virus situation, restrictions caused by the Covid-19 virus - will future meetings have had to be cancelled until further hopefully start again in September. For more notice. For more information, please contact Daphne information, call Dave Williams (01743 884553). Goodwin (01743 884524). Westbury Photography Club: Due to restrictions Rea Valley Young Farmers Club : Quite apart from caused by the Covid-19 virus, the Club will not be the restrictions caused by the Covid-19 virus, it has meeting again until advised by the Government been decided that no meetings of this Club will take that it will be safe to do so. For more information place in the future. For more information, Please email: Robert Williams ([email protected]. contact Rebecca Beckett on 07528 944632. Hall Hire : Due to the Covid-19 virus, the village Hall Hire : Due to the Covid-19 virus, the village hall will not be available for bookings until further hall will not be available for bookings until further notice. For more information, please contact Bella notice. For more information, please telephone 07707639124 (Mobile) (Voice/Text) or email : Samantha on 01743 821360. [email protected] Westbury Youth Club : The “physical” Youth Club has closed; however - conscious that the Covid-19 Refuse and Recycling Services in April 2020 virus situation is putting a huge strain on everyone, Wednesdays 8th and 22nd - Refuse Lee and Hayley are keeping in touch with the young Thursday 16th and Wednesday 29th - Green and people and will run a “virtual” Youth Club, which is Recycling being advertised through their Facebook page. For further information, call Richard Parkes, Chief Coronavirus (COVID-19) Executive Officer, Shropshire Youth Association. Currently services are operating as normal with no Tel: 01743 730005 or 07710095802 (Mobile). significant disruption - but please see Page 13 for Westbury Exercise Group : Due to the Covid-19 important information from Shropshire Council and virus, all future meetings have been postponed until Veolia. Customer Services further notice. For more information contact: Shropshire Council [email protected] Page 1 UNDERHILL CARPENTRY West Police High Quality Carpentry and Joinery Now that Westbury Post Office has closed and Police Surgeries are no longer held there, much of the information contained in Fitted Kitchens and Bathrooms the Newsletters produced by the Shrewsbury Rural West and Gates and Fencing District’s Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) based at Pontes- bury Police Station, will be of interest to residents of Westbury, Brickwork Repairs and Pointing Yockleton and surrounding hamlets and can be viewed on the Traditional and Double Glazing Westbury and Yockleton Newsletter website: wylocalnews.co.uk John Loines 01743 821302 Family Business Est 1947 or, to view issues of these SNT Newsletters and to view the Police Events Calendar, please follow the link below : https://www.westmercia.police.uk/article/2993/Team- Halfway House Garage Calendar-and-Events?amonth=2&ayear=2018&submit=Go (on the crossroads) Halfway House NB : If the Police are attending any events in Westbury, these will be added to their Calendar. MOT’s : Servicing : Repairs : Valeting Service to Cars, Minibuses and Classic Cars MOT’s by appointment : Monday to Friday Anti-Social Behaviour Please phone Russell Hughes : 01743 885270 0345 678 9020 is the Dedicated Reporting Line for Anti-Social Subscribe to our new website with a chance to Behaviour operated by Shropshire Council in partnership with a win prizes every month !! number of agencies including the Police. Please use this number https://halfwayhousegarage.com/wekeepyouonthemove.com to report any anti-social behaviour. All calls are recorded and followed up by the agencies involved. Ben Morris JIB Approved Electrician Call: 07966 788791 Safer Neighbourhood Team Quotations: 01743 792013 www.benmorriselectrical.co.uk Your local Safer Neighbourhood Team members are Inspector Saf Ali and Sgt Rebecca Thomas. Joe Bradley continues as my ‘Efficient friendly service from an experienced right hand man and Police Volunteer Arthur Jones is still local Electrician’ VAT free opening Pontesbury Police Station on Wednesday evenings Competitive Hourly Rates Specialist in House Rewiring between 4.00pm and 7.00pm, should you need to attend for Inspection & Testing of Properties for any issue. We have a sign that we put outside the Station if Fit your own newly purchased lights etc. Free Quotations Fully Insured there is an officer on the premises, so - if anyone is passing and Extra Sockets & Lights installed (no job too small) All work certified and notified to building control (Part P) wants advice - please call in. If anyone requires a “home” visit or wants to discuss anything, please just ring me : PC Cookson on 101 Ext 66645 or use my Work Mobile : 07814 042410 (Duty Hours) or email us via:[email protected]

If you need to report any crime, please call West Mercia on the 101 number or report anything anonymously through : Crimestoppers on 0800555111. Please do not email to report a crime. Only call 999 in an emergency, when a crime is in progress, or when life is in danger. For none emergencies please call 101. J.C.B and Plant Hire (continued on Page 3) J.C.B 3CX 14 ton 360º 3.5 ton 360º Disclaimer 1.5 ton Mini Digger The Editor reserves the right to cut, edit or refuse to publish any 7 ton Dumper contribution and does not necessarily endorse opinions expressed by Les Hurdley the contributors. Whilst care has been taken in compiling the Westbury and Telephone 01743 884479 Yockleton Newsletter, no liability can be accepted whatsoever for any Mobile 07711 205 555 errors, inaccuracies or omissions, or for any matter in any other way connected with or arising out of the publication of the Newsletter. Page 2 Police Matters The Covid-19 virus : It is unusual times and the length of time that the restrictions are likely to be in place remains unclear. Following the announcement on 22 March 2020, it would appear that almost everything will need to be ‘on hold’ and that we need to keep our distance from others and the idea of contacting the most vulnerable 1.5 million people. There is no separate advice from the Police regarding the Covid-19 virus, other than that which is available via the news. We would ask that you only contact the Police in an emergency - but we are available for all general advice via our mobile phones and email POLLY PAINT addresses. The Police continue to work as normal, but these are Do you need a Quotation for House Clearance ? challenging times and we are trying to stay healthy for as long as possible, so that we can continue to offer support to the general or maybe you just have some furniture and items public. which are no longer required ? So, why not give us a call on : 07540647795 (Mobile) or email : As always, keep garages, sheds and outbuildings locked and - if [email protected] possible - alarmed. Simple battery powered alarms have improved and we shall get right back to you. and noise is always a good deterrent if a thief has managed to get Please rest assured that, as holders of an Environ- into your ‘Lock Up’. Quad bikes and push bikes continue to be ment Agency Regulations 2011 Licence, your en- popular amongst thieves, so both need chaining up/bolting down. quiry will be dealt with professionally and in confidence. Security marking can help recover stolen items and there are a number of options available. Please remain vigilant and ensure Paul Jones everything gets locked all the time - not just last thing at night. Plumbing & Heating Keep in touch with your neighbours by telephone and - for those Engineer who use social media - post strange vehicles and unusual events. Neighbourhood Watch is nothing complicated or formal. It's just Plumbing, heating, gas work, keeping an eye out, but also letting others know - including me - if bathrooms, tiling, taps etc you have the registration numbers of vehicles that don’t look or feel Over 30 years experience right. It doesn’t matter if it is via Facebook, WhatsApp or a text message. Email me and Joe Bradley via : no. 212786 Tel: 01743 341902 or 07837 950461 [email protected] If you have outside lights and security lights, make sure they are working. Any garden ornaments of value or interest need to be well K R D M o t or s secured, as do power tools and garden equipment, as they remain a Shropshire Commercial Van Sales desirable item for opportunist night-time thieves. (Established : 1988) 10 Hermitage Close, Westbury, Please be aware of any unusual callers to your house or area, even Shrewsbury, Shropshire. SY5 9QL those who may make themselves look legitimate by offering Telephone : 01743 884968 gardening services or asking for directions. Always try and make a Mobile : 07831131274 note of vehicle registration numbers or anything distinctive about Suppliers of New and Used Private, the vehicle and callers. The “What’s on in Westbury” Facebook Commercial and 4 x 4 Vehicles page is a great way to warn everyone quickly about anything suspicious and gives others the chance to be vigilant. As stated above, please only contact the Police in an emergency - but we are available for all general advice via our mobile phones and email addresses. P C Ross Cookson 1324 Clothing Tools Pontesbury Police Station Spares Fencing SNT Rural West Building Supplies Tel: 101 Ext 66645 Plumbing and Drainage Animal Husbandry Work Mobile : 07814 042410 (Duty Hours) Monday Friday 8.00 - 5.30 Saturday 8.30 - 1.00 Group Mailbox : [email protected] The Garage, Westbury Minsterley Road, Pontesbury. SY5 0QH Telephone 01743 884707 Fax 01743 884107

Page 3 Wombrook Home Maintenance WESTBURY VILLAGE HALL Improvements, repairs and maintenance, in and Closed until further notice due to Covid-19 virus around the home. Normally available for hire for private, business and official functions. Decorating Tiling Plumbing Carpentry Fences Three sound-proofed and acoustically superior rooms with folding Bathrooms Kitchens partitions providing one large area when opened. Excellent and mod- Odd jobs & more ern kitchen, bar and toilet facilities. All work is completed to meticulous standards, fully guaranteed and insured. References are Fully licensed - Spacious car park. willingly supplied – please ask. Refurbished covered ball court marked out for football, tennis and net- Call Steve Percival: 01743 860712 / 0794 0894378 ball with electric floodlighting for night use. To book at affordable rates, please contact Bella on 07707 639124 (Voice/Text) or [email protected]

Vron Gate Show Easter Fund Raiser The Easter Egg Hunt which was to be a Vron Gate Show fund raising event - in conjunction with the Harry Johnson Trust - and due to take place on Sunday 5 April 2020 has had to be cancelled. We hope instead to hold a fun “Chocolate Hunt” later in the year, 01938 580738 07710 469665 as we have to make use of 80 Easter Eggs !!

The Vrongate Show Committee

Sabrina Mobile Library : 2020 Unfortunately the Mobile Library Service has now been cancelled until further notice. To keep up-to-date with our service delivery over the coming months, please follow us on Twitter. Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Shropshire Libraries Team:[email protected]. : Sioned Baldwin Team Librarian (Mon/Weds.Thurs) Library Development Team Shropshire Council, The Annexe, The Shirehall, Shrewsbury. SY2 6ND

Pontesbury and District Forum The final meeting on Thursday, 12 March 2020 had to be cancelled.

Anne Wilson : 01743 791263 : Email: [email protected]

The London Marathon in aid of Meningitis NOW has been postponed until Sunday, 4 October 2020 BIG J AUCTIONS when Jenny Wilcox will be running in memory of her father Roger Wilcox. To those of you who have been regu- larly attending the Auctions every This charity raises awareness of the disease and helps people Monday evening in Westbury Village affected to get their lives back on track. Hall, please note that John Northwood Any contributions would be gratefully received and has now retired and the Auctions will Donations may still be made via the link below: therefore no longer take place. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jennyr-wilcox

Page 4 Halfway House Stores and Post Office St Mary’s J.A.B. SELF STORAGE 01743 885261 Church SHROPSHIRE & MID Open 7 Days a Week ! Westbury 24 hour CCTV with Security Lighting Opening Hours 100 Club Under cover, clean, dry Units Monday Friday : 7.30am to 6.00pm Prize Winners Saturday : 8am to 3pm Sunday : 8.30am to 1.00pm March 2020 Good access to hard standing We offer a wide range of goods and Draw services including the following : Security gated with Personal Key to Unit National Lottery, Newspapers, Magazines 1st Prize : £20 Removal Service available Groceries, Fresh Bread, Milk, Wine and Justine Thomas Beers from all over the world, Spirits, (No 30) Quality Boxes and Packing Materials Champagne, Chocolates, Cigarettes and for Sale 2nd Prize : £14 Tobacco, Hot Snacks, Fresh Sandwiches 30 years experience in the Storage and Snacks, Fresh Locally Baked Goods, Judith Seabrook Business Greeting Cards for all Occasions, Dry (No 144) Cleaning Service, Pet Food, Coal, Logs 3rd Prize : £8 Situated on the B4386 and Kindling. Heather Scholes Yockleton to Westbury Road Our Post Office offers a wide range of (No 32) Tel: 01743 884418 services including Stamps, Cash Mobile: 07422668359 Withdrawals, Bill Payments and Personal 4th Prize : £5 ______Banking. Find us on Facebook Geoff Leigh www.jabselfstorage.com (No 15)

Mary Pryce

Drop-In for Coffee @ St Mary’s Hignetts of Pontesbury Ltd On Wednesday Established 1919 mornings Retailers of Quality Foods Sessions cancelled Martin Walters Fresh meat, Fruit and Vegetables, Fresh Bread, until further High Quality Traditional Joiner Pies and Buns, all baked on the premises. notice Doors A range of Sausages and Burgers Sash and Casement Windows made to our own recipes. Stairs and Continuous Handrail Fresh Flowers and Plants Furniture Groceries at Competitive Prices Advertise your Arched and Curved Work 01743 790228 Business in our ~~~~ Newsletter Joinery Repairs Splicing PEAKES TRAVEL ELITE £2.50 per month Replacement Sash Cording Standard Size Pulleys, Fasteners and Award winning established, family run and Ironmongery (7.9cms x 5.43cms) totally independent Travel Agent. ~~~~ in landscape format. Upgrades Tailormade holidays and flightonly For more Draught Exclusion a speciality. All aspects of travel covered. Double Glazing information Tailor made and long haul : 01743 231080 ~~~~ please email the Europe, short haul & flight only : 01743 233234 25 years trade experience Editor : Free Consultation and Quote LOCAL – INDEPENDENT – RELIABLE newsletter.editor. Telephone : 07813 477720 (Mobile) [email protected] Email : [email protected]

Page 5 Yockleton Westley House Farm 100 Club (situated between Westbury and Minsterley) It has not been Secure Indoor/Outdoor possible to hold the Caravan Storage Draw this month and, Also Boats : Cars : Trailers due to the current Self Storage Coronovirus situation, 7 day access to all areas I am not sure when 01743 791263 another one will be [email protected] held although I hope to resume them as Neil Davies 4X4 soon as possible. Land Rover Specialist 4x4's, Car & Commercial ******** All Vehicles Welcome for Servicing, Repairs, Yockleton Church SUPPLIERS OF COAL, LOGS AND GAS BOTTLES Tyres & MOT's, Recovery & Breakdown Lilies for Easter COAL AVAILABLE IN OPEN TOP SACKS Specialist in Land Rover Autologic Diagnostics Engine Tuning & Power Upgrades Due to the ALL FUELS AVAILABLE INC SMOKELESS Unit D4, Lower House Farm, Stoney Coronvirus outbreak FREE DELIVERY Stretton,Shrewsbury, SY5 9PZ restrictions, it will not RING US ON 01743 241122 or 01743 821 546 or 07802 515 881 be possible to VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT www.ridgefuels.co.uk decorate Holy Trinity PLEASE QUOTE REF 013 ON YOUR FIRST ORDER TO Church for Easter. GET YOUR “NEW CUSTOMER PACK” Also due to the J. T. HARVEY uncertainty of availability of the PROPERTY MAINTENANCE. Easter Lilies, it will Plumbing Fencing not be possible to Bathroom Guttering have those either. Suites House Painting Radiators etc Home Repairs It is hoped, however, Window Cleaning Electrical that once this crisis is For Free Quotation Phone: John past and the Church can re-open, we will Home 01743 622973 Mobile: 07816967164 be able to decorate it then instead, in Ian Owen Motor Services celebration, and in Yockleton W I The Bungalow Garage memory of all those At our March meeting, Rachel Griffiths poor people who have gave an interesting talk on how she went Halfway House lost their lives as a from “Racing Mares to Elderly Care”. Shrewsbury SY5 9DU result of this terrible She spent 20 years breaking in horses, virus. before deciding to concentrate on provid- MoTs - SIX Days a Week Liz Bromley ing care in the home for the elderly and infirm. She believes that providing per- by Appointment sonalised support in the home, spending Full Workshop Facilities Available Messy Church time with people, encouraging social ac- tivity and keeping mentally alert is the Service : Repairs Messy Church will best way to spend one’s retirement. Tyres : Valeting be cancelled until Unfortunately our monthly meetings further notice Used Car Sales have been cancelled until further notice due to to due to the Coronavirus pandemic and so the Coronavirus we hope that you all keep safe and care Call situation. 01743 884023 for each other until we meet again. Ruth Leigh Daphne Goodwin, Secretary

Page 6 POSTAGE STAMPS FOR CHARITY MARY’S LAMBS Please keep saving used postage stamps to help raise funds for New Babies and Toddler Group in Bransby Horses, to support the invaluable work they do with the St Mary’s Church : Westbury 400+ horses, ponies, donkeys and mules in their care. will not be meeting until further notice Stamps can be left for me at : due to the Corvid-19 virus situation The Oaklands, Station Road, Westbury, Shrewsbury. SY5 9QX For more information please contact : (by the former Post Office) Ruth Leigh: 01743 884658 : There is a free-standing mail box by the double gates on our driveway. Email:[email protected] Many thanks to everyone who has donated stamps so far. Alex Tucker THANK YOU Thank you to everyone who attended, helped Westbury W I and gave prizes for the Raffle Our President welcomed members and visitors. Our Speaker for as well as generous Donations the evening was Mr A T Crowe who told us about Thomas at the recent who was born in Scotland. He was a civil engineer and Bingo Evening his crowning achievement was the design and construction of the at Menai Bridge in Wales. He also designed Canals, Castles and Westbury Village Hall Churches. when a fantastic £220.00 was raised for Thomas was appointed to the Ellesmere Canal Company in 1793 where he made his reputation as a civil engineer. In 1811, “Severn Hospice at Home” Thomas was appointed to survey the road from Shrewsbury to Matt Weaver Holyhead and - in 1815 - was commissioned to improve the whole route from London to Holyhead.. POSTPONEMENT Mr A T Crowe was thanked by our President Jill Jones and Long Mountain School refreshments were served by Helen and Sue. The Raffle was organised by Cilla and Frances. Quiz Night The Lowfield Inn, Marton Due to the Covid-19 virus situation all future WI Meetings and Events have had to be post- Sadly, due to the Coronavirus outbreak, poned, including the following : the PTFA has decided to postpone the Quiz Night which had been arranged W I visit to Slimbridge Wetlands and Wildlife Reserve planned to take place on for Saturday, 18 April 2020. Thursday evening : 23 April 2020 The WI Car Treasure Hunt to raise funds for the School planned for 6.30pm on Friday, 5 June 2020 Laura Morris, Treasurer Email: [email protected] A Happy Easter to you all and See you again soon. Beryl Johnson, Secretary : 01743 884950 HOLY TRINITY CHURCH Email : [email protected] YOCKLETON Westbury and Yockleton Newsletter COFFEE CAFÉ Covid- 19 Virus Our Coffee Mornings for the last Thursday Previously - each month - 530 copies of our Newsletter have been in the month have been suspended for the delivered house-to-house in Westbury, Yockleton and surround- time being, until June at least, or until fur- ing communities by our team of 20 volunteer distributors. ther notice. Please contact me on the Understandably, in these extraordinary times, our volunteers are number below for up-to-date information unable to continue. For the time being therefore, future monthly approaching that time. editions will only be available for viewing or downloading via Meanwhile keep well and stay safe ! our new website . Jenny Howard : 01743 821768 “wylocalnews.co.uk” Editor Page 7 BINGO West Shropshire Flower Club The Lion: Westbury The February meeting’s demonstration was given by Every Monday Evening : Eyes Down 7.30pm Kerry Artess and entitled “New Beginnings”. We would like to thank everyone who contributed It started with meeting a tall dark stranger - an invert- to the two Bingo Sessions held on ed crescent of Ruscus and Ivy forming the brim of a Mondays 2nd and 9th March 2020 hat - accentuated with Genista, Mahonia and yellow when a total of £160.00 was raised for Roses. Things then moved on to “Getting Married” Hospice at Home Care with a classic hanging arrangement of expertly placed Thanks also to those giving donations and prizes foliage, white Avalanche Roses and Lisianthus, all set for The Raffle off with dried grass. The “Honeymoon” was a large tropical arrangement of manipulated Aspidistra Due to the Covid-19 Virus situation, there will be leaves, with lines of tropical flowers : Heliconia, no more Bingo Sessions until further notice. Ginger flowers and purple Orchids. Mary Pryce Next was “Moving House” an arrangement set in a packing crate, with a collar of Fatsia leaves, a set of Apology brown Lilies, Pampas grass and dried Hydrangea flowers. Finally “Having a Baby” was a delicate ar- I made a typo in my March 2020 Newsletter rangement of different types of grey Senecio and The two Bingo sessions held at The Lion green Conifer, with white Gerbera, pink Freesias and on 17th and 24th February 2020 Orchids, set above a glass goblet in which were placed together raised a total of £150.00 for pink booties. The Harry Johnson Trust - not £50.00 All future meetings have been cancelled due to the Editor Covoid-19 virus situation. Julia Brion

WESTBURY SUPPORT GROUP Councillor Ed Potter, Sarah Smith and I have set up a Westbury Support Group on What's App. In 24 hours there are over 20 volunteers willing to help. That’s amazing, thank you so much. Sarah Smith our Parish Clerk has offered to be the first point of contact. If you need help, please leave a message on her phone using the following number : 0121 318 5138. Sarah will pass on that request to one of the team. If there are a couple of people in each Parish who would be willing to act as co-ordinators for each village, please let me know. I’m not very “tech” minded. What concerns me most is the elderly/vulnerable residents who don’t have family close by, and don’t have access to social media. I have people willing to give them a regular call and check if they’re OK. If you need prescriptions collecting from the Westbury or doctors' surgeries, they have lists of people willing to collect and deliver them. Please tell the surgery when ordering your prescriptions. Halfway House Stores offer a local delivery service and the shop at Worthen carries a wide range of goods. Again I have offers of help to do shopping. I currently have no offers of help from Yockleton. Hignetts at Pontesbury are now doing an online shop. You can order online and pay by PayPal or credit/debit card. I shop there most weeks and would be happy to collect your order and drop it to you. I’m sorry to be a bit vague; we are still working on this, but I wanted to get something into the Newsletter. Further details will be updated on Westbury Parish Council's website : www.westburyparishcouncil.co.uk and in the “What’s on in Westbury” Facebook Page and also in leaflet form. Watch this space. You can contact me on [email protected]. Stay safe and look out for each other. See also Page 15 of this Newsletter for a list of telephone numbers of organisations which are already in place and ready to help. Caroline Pryce

Page 8 Westbury, Worthen and Yockleton Benefice Whilst all activities and public worship are suspended, all three Churches are open for individual and private prayer between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm on Sundays. Funerals and weddings can still take place, but must observe Government Guidelines on Social Distancing - and with limited numbers attending. I am producing daily prayer and reflections along with worship services (for Sundays) and can circulate in paper or email format if anyone would like them. Revd. David Moss Rector for the Parishes of Westbury, Worthen and Yockleton Email :

Easter Reflection “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me ?” (Mark 15:34)

The sky turned black although it was the middle of the day, this was no cry of defeat but a quotation from Psalm 22 which described the suffering figure, who is later vindicated and victorious.

When we travel through our lives in a world of uncertainty, we need a God who truly understands what it is like to feel lost, afraid and emotionally drained.

Jesus Christ led a life of giving out unconditional love and standing up for social justice and yet he was beaten, stripped and left to die in a horrific execution. It seems counter intuitive that a sin free creator God would sacrifice himself, in place of you and me (with all our baggage) to put right the world that had gone wrong thanks to you and me.

The darkness was a painful exclusion from God’s presence although only momentary, and ultimately it led to a great victory as Jesus on the third day rose again; defeating the power of death for all.

At times like these we need to remember that whatever the physical and natural outcome, God’s love is available unconditionally for all to reach out and receive; not even death can separate us from the love of God.

We may well feel cut off from God at times, but that’s just how it feels, not how it is.

Our Church may well have suspended all acts of public worship, in line with Government guidelines, but we can still worship God in our hearts, in the comfort of our own homes and self-exclusion. If you would like to receive any literature or join in with our ‘virtual’ services at home please ask either the Church Warden or Rector for details.

God bless you and keep you. Revd. David Moss Rector for the Parishes of Westbury, Worthen and Yockleton 01743 884165

LUDLOW WALK FOR PARKINSON’S Saturday, 27 June 2020

In view of the current Covid-19 virus situation, we are thinking that we will probably have to postpone this Walk until later in the year. Alison Knott Regional Fundraiser, Parkinson’s UK Email: [email protected]. Tel No: 0344 2259823

Page 9 P R E S S R E L E A S E : 16 March 2020 Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and Princess Royal Hospital : NHS Trust Restrictions to Visiting in response to Coronavirus

Visiting restrictions are to be put in place at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital (RSH) and the Princess Royal Hospital (PRH) in Telford in the wake of national guidance to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus. The changes will come into effect from 6pm today (Monday 16 March) until further notice.

Neither RSH nor PRH currently has any confirmed cases of Coronavirus, but The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH), which runs the hospitals has taken the steps to limit the risk to vulnerable patients. Under the new visiting guidelines, the following people are being asked not to visit our hospitals : Anyone with a fever or a new persistent cough. People with these symptoms will be asked to return home immediately and self-isolate in line with national guidance. Children under the age of 16. This also applies to siblings of children who are inpatients and children whose parents are inpatients. Anyone over the age of 70. Anyone with existing heart disease, lung disease, cancer, diabetes, any condi- tion that weakens their immune system or on any medication that weakens their immune system (e.g. steroids). Patients who are undergoing testing for possible Coronavirus will not be allowed visitors until they are given the all clear. Visitors will not be allowed in X-ray or Radiology. In addition, wards at both hospitals will have restrictions on visiting times. People will be able to visit their loved ones between 10am and 8pm but will only be able to visit for two hours between those times. Only one visitor per patient will be allowed to visit at any one time. Families and wards are being encouraged to nominate the same person to visit regularly, in order to minimise the number of visitors to our hospitals. Visitors are asked to only visit the ward/area where their loved one is being treated and refrain from walking into the canteens, cafes and, especially, other clinical areas if this can be avoided. Exceptions to visiting restrictions are : Births: Only one of two named birthing partners will be allowed at any one time to support the mother through delivery. The named birthing partners can alternate. The two-hour visiting window does not apply. All other maternity areas, including postnatal and antenatal wards will operate one named visitor only. The two-hour visiting window does not apply. Children under the age of 16, including siblings of the new born baby, are not permitted to visit any maternity area.

Paediatric and Neonatal: One designated carer can visit for the duration of the child’s stay. The two-hour visiting window does not apply. If the designated carer can no longer visit due to illness or caring duties at home, the family of the child is asked to nominate a new designated carer and discuss this with the nurse in charge of the ward. End of life care: The two-hour visiting window does not apply. Further discussions will be held on an individual basis. Continued overleaf

Page 10 Certain areas in the hospitals might be cordoned off or closed to visitors for deep cleaning or certain treatments – this does not mean that there is a positively tested coronavirus patient in that area. Visitors close to these areas under restriction/deep clean may also be asked to leave the hospital at short notice. All visitors will be asked to use alcohol gel to disinfect their hands on entering the hospital, and again on entering the clinical area where their relative is treated. We also ask them to use the gel again when leaving the clinical area and when leaving the hospital. Visitors who are picking up a discharged patient to take them home, or are providing transport for a patient who is attending as an outpatient or for a short procedure, are asked to stay in their car, to avoid direct contact with other people and pick up their relative wherever this is possible. Dr Arne Rose, Medical Director at SaTH, said: “Friends and relatives are encouraged to stay in touch with patients via other means, such as video messaging, text messaging and social media. Mobile phones can be used in almost all areas of the hospital". “We are asking the public and friends and families of patients to please restrict the number of phone calls to our hospitals in what is a highly-pressured time for our teams" “Clinical teams will give short updates to families of patients via telephone; in particular where there is a change of treatment or a change in the course of an illness". “We appreciate that these measures may cause some anxiety and inconvenience, and we are sorry for that, but this is a highly unusual situation and our priority needs to be in protecting our vulnerable patients. I want to thank the public for their understanding and our teams for their hard work at this time.”

ENDS

Notes for Editors :

The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust runs the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and the Princess Royal Hospital, Telford. It is the main provider of acute hospital care for almost 500,000 people from Shropshire, and mid Wales. Patients come from Telford, Shrewsbury, , , , Whitchurch, Newtown and in . The Trust continues to work with its partners in health and social care in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and mid Wales to develop patient-focused services that meet the needs of our communities For more information contact David Burrows, Head of External Communications at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust, on 01743 261378.

UPDATE FROM ED POTTER YOUR SHROPSHIRE COUNCIL UNITARY COUNCILLOR The Shirehall, Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury Shropshire SY2 6ND 20 March 2020 Dear Residents,

As a result of the Covid-19 Virus, we are all experiencing unprecedented and worrying times. The effects and repercussions are already being experienced by individuals, families and businesses across the Loton Division and, in the face of a national crisis, it looks like this will most certainly escalate in the coming weeks and - potentially - months. Overleaf I have updated some information and provided some more useful contacts

Page 11 following my initial letter earlier this week dated 16 March 2020.

It is very important that all residents follow the official advice which is changing daily. This can be found on the following websites: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

Information on maintaining your wellbeing during the crisis : https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/coronavirus-and-your-wellbeing/

Shropshire Council also has an information page which can be found at https://www.shropshire.gov.uk/coronavirus/

Up-to-Date information from Central Government is received by Shropshire Council who publish it according- ly. I would suggest that you sign up (if you are not signed up already) to the Updates from Shropshire Council’s News Room : https://shropshire.gov.uk/ . The Subscribe button is in the top right hand corner.

Information has emerged this week around the support for businesses affected by the Coronavirus outbreak. See : https://shropshire.gov.uk/coronavirus/information-for-businesses

HMRC have a dedicated Helpline relating to Tax and Payments.

Each of our four parishes has taken various steps to co-ordinate a community repose since I originally wrote my letter on Monday, 16 March 2020. Much of this is being organised by members of the community in conjunction with the Parish Council. and Parish Area Useful local contacts can be found at www.alberburywithcardeston.com or through Next-door Westbury platform. Westbury Medical Practice

Montford Parish Area Local community and neighbourhood groups and Parish Council Coordinated Watchers Email Group Useful local contacts can be found at www.montfordparish.co.uk. Clerk - 01743 850504

Great and Little Ness Parish Area Nesscliffe and Wilcott Community Facebook pages and via Parish Council Useful local contacts can be found at www.greatandlittlenessparishcouncil.org Westbury Parish Area What’s on in the Westbury area (Shropshire) Facebook Page Next-door Westbury Platform also operates - Parish Council - Useful local contacts can be found at Westbury Parish Council’s website : www.westburyparishcouncil.co.uk , at Westbury Medical Practice and at local Churches It has been fantastic to see the community spirit which has already been demonstrated across our villages and parishes. All evidence available to us suggests that we are all going to have to support those elderly and vulnerable members of our families and wider community. I have seen a number of offers of help and assistance on various social media platforms and I would like to add my own offer to this for any members of our community who might need support in the case of self-isolation or a broader lock-down on any individual’s movements. Likewise, if any residents have concerns for friends or relatives in other areas of Shropshire, I would be more than happy to contact my fellow Councillors in their area to arrange community support for those you might be concerned about. I would encourage residents to actively check on each other, especially the more elderly, vulnerable or those living on their own but obviously taking the necessary precautions. Unfortunately, we also must be mindful of scammers who may take advantage of the situation. Please be vigilant and double check the validity of people offering assistance on social media. It is always worth checking with others in the community if you are in any doubt.

Page 12 Continued overleaf ... From Shropshire Council’s perspective, the local authority is following the National Guidance that has been made available. Measures are being put in place to ensure that the Council’s Statutory duties will be fulfilled, around social care and supporting our most vulnerable adults and young people. The Council is expecting to be placed under significant pressures as the national situation changes. I ask residents to bear with any delays to non-essential services which might occur. For any specific issues, as ever please let me know and I will follow them up. I know we have wonderful communities and at times like this we all pull together. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need any help or support from the local authority or from me as an individual member of the community. I run an Outside Catering business (as my day job) and unfortunately our work has been cancelled or postponed; however we do have access to various supplies and we are a business of five young, fit and healthy (fingers crossed !!) individuals who are happy to help wherever possible. Many people have come forward to offer assistance in a number of ways. If anyone would like more advice or if you think I can help in any way, please do not hesitate to contact me, even if it is just for a chat. The situation is changing daily and the community will be key during these challenging times. I appreciate that not all residents will have access to the Internet but, if anyone wants to speak to me, my details are below and I would be more than happy to update them verbally on the information on the above-mentioned websites. Likewise, I would ask all members of the community to do the same for those who may not be able to access the information easily. Ed Potter Shropshire Councillor for the Loton Division (Including the Parishes of Alberbury with Cardeston, Montford, Great and Little Ness and Westbury) Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Education Mobile : 07779 117802 Landline : 01694 731305

Shropshire Newsroom : 23 March 2020 Recycling and Waste Collection Calendar Currently there are no alterations to the service, however this is subject to change with the ongoing situation so, please keep up to date withe information on the Shropshire Newsroom : https://newsroom.shropshire.gov.uk/2020/03/coronavirus-waste-recycling/ Coronavirus (COVID-19): Waste and Recycling Services Related topics: Coronavirus / Health / Public protection We are working closely with our partner Veolia to minimise the impact of Coronavirus on Recycling and Waste Services. Business continuity plans have been successfully implemented and resources are being closely monitored to ensure that the most essential services can continue to be delivered safely. Currently services are operating with no significant disruption. Please continue to use your Recycling and Waste Collection Services as normal, with the following important exceptions : Households that are self-isolating should follow the UK Government’s ‘Stay at home’ advice which states: Store personal waste such as used tissues and disposable cleaning cloths securely within disposable rub- bish bags. Please do not place any of these items in your recycling containers as they will not be collected Place these bags into another bag, tied securely and keep separate from other waste These bags should be put aside for at least 72 hours, before being put in your usual external general waste bin Please do not take this waste to your local Household Waste and Recycling Centre. Please dispose of your other household waste as normal. It is more important than ever to ensure that recycling is clean and dry and that any rubbish bags are all securely tied, to help prevent spills and protect our collection teams and the public. Thank you for your continued support. Customer Services , Shropshire Council

Page 13 Westbury Parish Council

Play Areas in Westbury and Yockleton

The Play Areas are closed and will remain closed until the Government confirms that the Covid-19 virus has been contained. So, for your own safety and the safety of others, DO NOT use the play equipment !

Coronavirus We are concerned that there is a growing number of people in our communities who are self isolating in their homes - or will be - for a variety of reasons. If you are self isolating, please be assured that we are aware that many of those affected have a network of family, friends and neighbours to help or may already be receiving services from an appropriate charity or other agency. Shropshire Councillor Ed Potter has signposted a number of social media platforms where assistance is being offered, see page 12. You can contact the Clerk or your local Westbury Parish Councillor. Details can be found under the Committee heading on our website : https://www.westburyparishcouncil.co.uk/. Please see below (and overleaf on page 15) a list of Key Telephone Numbers of organisations which are already in place and ready to help.

Sarah Smith, Clerk and RFO, Westbury Parish Council

Local Doctors Surgeries and NHS

Westbury Medical Centre 01743 884727 Worthen Medical Practice 01743 891401 Pontesbury Medical Practice 01743 790325 Bishop's Castle Medical Practice 01588 638285 Montgomery Medical Practice 01686 668217 Royal Shrewsbury Hospital 01743 261000 NHS Helpline 111 Shropshire Council

Customer Services 0345 678 9000 Concern for Vulnerable Adult 0345 678 9044 Concern for Vulnerable Child 0345 678 9021 Emergency Social Work Team (Out of Hours) 0356 789040 Shropshire Citizens Advice 0344 4991100 Local Support Prevention Fund 0345 6789078 They can help with Food and Utilities. You can apply on line at : https://shropshire.gov.uk/benefits/what-help-can-i-claim-from-the-council.

Charities NSPCC 0800 8005000 Child line 0800 1111 Shropshire Rural Support 0300 1232825 Barnabas Food Bank 01743 364101 Samaritans 116 123 Shropshire Mind 0300 1233393

Page 14 KEY PHONE NUMBERS (Details Correct at Date of Publication) Worthen Medical Practice: 01743 891401 Westbury Medical Centre: 01743 884727 Pontesbury Medical Practice: 01743 790325 Bishop’s Castle Medical Practice: 01588 638285 Montgomery Medical Practice: 01686 668217 NHS HELPLINE: 111

Shropshire Council: 0345 678 9000 Local Support and Prevention Fund: 0345 678 9078 Shropshire Citizen’s Advice: 0344 499 1100 Shropshire Rural Support: Offers support to rural people during periods of anxiety and stress 0300 1232825 Royal Agricultural Benevolent Society (RABS) : Assistance for individuals and families from the farming sector 0808 281 9490 Mind 07434 869248 Samaritans: free from any phone 116 123 local call charges apply 0330 094 5717 South Shropshire Housing Assoc: 0300 303 1190 Severnside Housing: 0300 300 0059 Universal Credit: 0800 328 5644 Child Benefit: 0300 200 3100 Pensions: 0800 731 0469 Govt Business Support Helpline: 0300 456 3565 HMRC special Coronavirus Helpline for businesses or self-employed 0800 024 1222

Chirbury Post Office and Stores: 01938 561201 Cock Inn: 01743 891969 Hignetts of Pontesbury: 01743 790228 Smiths Butchers Minsterley: 01743 791863 Londis (Worthen): 01743 891997 Marton Village Stores: 01938 561279 Stiperstones Inn: 01743 791327 Yockleton Arms: 01743 821491 Care in the Community Helpline: 0121 318 5138 [email protected] Continued overleaf

Page 15 Westbury Parish Council : Covid-19 Support Group SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL SHOPS We want to make everyone aware of the Covid-19 Support Group - covering the Parishes of Worthen, Westbury and - where Sarah Smith is the Parish Clerk. Please call 0121 318 5138 (manned: 9.00am - 4.00pm weekdays if you - or your neighbours - need help. Email: [email protected]. NB: You will talk to the local team, despite the Birmingham telephone number ! During the current crisis, many of our local shops have responded magnificently, and are rapidly adapting to the new situation, helping to serve those who are now in self-quarantine. Below you can find a list of the actions many of these shops are undertaking. Be aware, though, that this list is current as of the date of publication, and may change in the weeks to come. We have volunteers willing to collect prescriptions, do your shopping etc or just be a friendly voice over the phone if you need to talk to someone. There is even a small food bank. For information, some of the following local businesses now do deliveries : Halfway House Stores, on the A458 : 01743 885261 - Order by 12 noon. Rikki Lloyd Butchers, 39 High Street, Welshpool : 01938 552683. Ed Potter’s, Oak Apple Catering, Oak Tree Farm, Frodesley, Shrewsbury : 01694 731305 : Home- made pies, curries etc - even a Supper menu. Fruit and and vegetables or fruit boxes delivered : Website : www.cheesenibbles.co.uk. Email: [email protected]. Hignetts of Pontesbury, Main Road, Pontesbury : 01743 790228 - is gearing up to provide a new delivery service for those isolating, with updates and details on their Facebook page. They can be contacted on 01743 790228, or through their website at https://hignetts.co.uk/ with an online ordering service for collection. The Cock Inn, Brockton, near Worthen : from 25 March, will be providing a takeaway service from 4.00pm - 9.00pm. Contact 01743 891969 for more details. Chirbury Post Office and Stores will be operating a delivery service, including fresh sandwiches, cakes and quiches. They can be contacted on 01938 561201 The Stiperstones Inn, Snailbeach is offering a takeaway food service; contact 01743 791327 for more details. Hayford Farm, off the B4386 between Westbury and Yockleton : 01743 884248 - Free range eggs at £1.50 per dozen. Smith’s Butchers Minsterley is opening early between 7:30am and 9:00am for elderly and vulnerable customers and, for those unable to leave their home, they are willing to drop off orders for local residents. Call 07807898404 or 01743 791863. The Yockleton Arms public house and restaurant near on the B4386 between Westbury and Yockleton, is offering a takeaway service, until further notice, and a delivery service for those in self-isolation, with a minimum order of £15 for free delivery. For more information, contact 01743 821491. We will post Updates on the “What’s on in Westbury” Facebook page, notice boards and on our website : www.westburyparishcouncil.co.uk. Meanwhile stay safe at home. Sarah Smith, Clerk and RFO, Westbury Parish Council

Page 16 CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC What are Social Distancing and Self Isolation (Source : BBC News page on Internet : https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk) Coronavirus: What are Social Distancing and Self-Isolation ? Members of the public should stay at home and not be tempted out by good weather, the government says. In particular, Health Secretary Matt Hancock warned: "Sunbathing is against the rules that have been set out for important public health reasons." Restrictions put in place to combat Coronavirus state that everybody must stay at home where possible, and only leave if they have a "reasonable excuse". This includes: Exercise - alone, or with members of your household Shopping for basic necessities Any medical need, or providing care for a vulnerable person Travel to or from work, but only when you cannot work from home What are the Rules on Exercise ? Warnings to stay away from beaches, national parks and other destinations were made as forecasters predicted warm weather. In some areas on Sunday temperatures exceeded 20C. If you have to go outside you should stay more than 2m (6ft) apart from anyone other than members of your own household. This is what's known as social distancing. Government guidance urges people to "stay local", use open spaces near their home and avoid unnecessary travel Guidance to Police says that the public shouldn't be sanctioned for "travelling a reasonable distance to exercise" - although no definition has been given People should only exercise once a day, although in , Scotland and Northern Ireland there is no legal ban on exercising more than that. In Wales, which sets its own health regulations, exercising more than once a day is now illegal - and potentially a criminal offence You can exercise alone or with members of your own household Gatherings of more than two in parks and public spaces have been banned (ruling out most team sports) Dogs can be walked as part of a person's daily exercise No mention is given as to how long you can exercise. But Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove has said: "I would have thought for most people a walk of up to an hour, a run of 30 minutes or a cycle ride of between that, depending on their level of fitness, is appropriate." Police have wide-ranging powers to help fight Coronavirus by enforcing social distancing measures. But there is an enormous gap between what the government would like people to do and the limits of the law restricting movements, says BBC Home Affairs Correspondent Dominic Casciani How to stick together, by staying apart Stay at home - no unnecessary journeys or social contact or exercise once a day, or travelling to work if absolutely necessary, Public gatherings of more than two people are banned Police may be able to fine you if you can't follow the rules Only leave home for essential shopping or medical needs

Exercise Continued overleaf

Page 17 Why is Social Distancing necessary ? Social distancing is important because Coronavirus spreads when an infected person coughs small droplets - packed with the virus - into the air. These can be breathed in, or can cause an infection if you touch a surface they have landed on, and then touch your face with unwashed hands. Wash your hands Use a tissue for coughs Avoid touching your face

What am I allowed to do when Social Distancing ? You can see family and friends if it’s essential You can walk your dog You can provide essential care for elderly relatives and neighbours if you have no symptoms You can go to the shops to buy food and groceries How to Stick Together by Staying Apart No handshakes, hugs or kisses, unless you live together Don’t go to restaurants, bars, or parties Stay two metres apart where possible (trains, in meetings etc) Children may have to avoid grandparents for a while Keep in touch with one another - phone or PC If unwell, isolate yourself and your family What is Self-Isolation ? If you show symptoms of Coronavirus - such as a dry cough and high temperature - you must take extra pre- cautions. You should stay at home and if possible, not leave it for any reason, other than to exercise once a day (staying at least 2 metres away from others). This is known as self-isolation. If possible, you should not go out even to buy food or other essentials. If you are unable to get supplies delivered, you should do what you can to limit social contact when you do leave the house.

Who should Self-Isolate ? Everyone who shows Coronavirus symptoms - a fever of above 37.8C, a persistent cough or breathing problems - and everyone who lives in the same house or flat as someone with symptoms. If you live alone, you must stay at home for seven days from the day symptoms start If you, or someone you live with, develops symptoms, the entire household needs to isolate for 14 days to monitor for signs of Covid-19 If someone else does become ill during that period, their seven-day isolation starts that day. For example, it might run from Day 3 to Day 10 - when that person's isolation would then end. It would not re-start if another member of the household fell ill But anyone who fell ill on Day 13 would have to start a separate seven-day isolation from that day (meaning they would spend a total of 20 days at home)

Continued overleaf Page 18 What happens if someone in your family gets sick ? The person with the symptoms should stay in a well-ventilated room with a window that can be opened, and keep away from other people in the home. People are being advised not to ring NHS 111 or their GP to report their symptoms unless they are worried.

Who shouldn't go out at all ? About 1.5 million people with very serious health conditions are being contacted by the NHS and urged not go out at all for at least 12 weeks. This is what's known as shielding. The most vulnerable groups include: Certain types of cancer patients Organ transplant patients People with certain genetic diseases People with serious respiratory conditions such as cystic fibrosis and severe chronic bronchitis People receiving certain drug treatments which suppress the immune system Pregnant women with heart disease

The Government says it will work with local authorities, supermarkets and the armed forces to ensure they get supplies of essential food and medicines. Others in the same household, and carers, can go out as long they observe proper social distancing. Coronavirus symptoms - what are they and how do I protect myself - 4 April 2020 Coronavirus has spread to 181 countries or territories, including the UK, and claimed nearly 60,000 lives. So, what is the disease, how does it spread and when are people most infectious ?

What are the Coronavirus symptoms ? Coronavirus infects the lungs. The two main, key symptoms are a fever and a dry cough, which can in some cases lead to breathing problems. The cough to look out for is a new, continuous cough. This means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or having three or more coughing episodes in 24 hours (and if you usually have a cough, it may be worse than usual). You have a fever if your temperature is above 37.8C. This can make you feel warm, cold or shivery. It takes five days on average to start showing the symptoms, scientists have said, but some people will get symptoms much later than this. In fact the World Health Organisation (WHO) says the incubation period lasts up to 14 days. A sore throat, headache and diarrhoea have also been reported in some cases and a loss of smell and taste may also be a symptom. But these symptoms aren't specific to this Coronavirus. There is a lot we still don't know about the full range of symptoms.

How do I protect myself ? The best thing is regular and thorough hand washing, preferably with soap and water. Coronavirus spreads when an infected person coughs small droplets - packed with the virus - into the air. These can be breathed in, or cause an infection if you touch a surface they have landed on, then your eyes, nose or mouth. So, coughing and sneezing into tissues, not touching your face with unwashed hands, and avoiding close contact with infected people are important for limiting the spread. Continued overleaf

Page 19 Face masks do not provide effective protection, according to medical experts. However, the World Health Organisation (WHO) is currently looking at whether the public might benefit from using face masks. This follows a study suggesting that the virus can travel further in coughs and sneezes than previously thought.

What should I do to prevent catching and spreading the virus ? Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use a sanitiser gel Throw away used tissues (and then wash hands) Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands Catch coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues If you don’t have a tissue, use your sleeve Avoid close contact with people who are unwell How deadly is Coronavirus ? The proportion dying from the disease appears low (between 1% and 2%) - but the figures are unreliable. Coronavirus death rate: What are the chances of dying? Thousands are being treated but may go on to die - so the death rate could be higher. But it may also be lower if lots of mild cases are unreported. A World Health Organisation examination of data from 56,000 patients suggests: 6% become critically ill - lung failure, septic shock, organ failure and risk of death 14% develop severe symptoms - difficulty breathing and shortness of breath 80% develop mild symptoms - fever and cough and some may have pneumonia Older people, and those with pre-existing medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure), are more likely to become severely ill. The data from China also suggests that men are at a slightly higher risk of dying from the virus than women. Treatment relies on keeping the patient's body going, including breathing support, until their immune system can fight off the virus. Work to develop a vaccine is under way. How close are we to a vaccine or drug? A visual guide to the outbreak Coronavirus: Your questions answered

What should I do if I think I have Coronavirus ? Patients with mild symptoms - such as a new continuous cough or a high temperature above 37.8C should self-isolate at home for at least seven days, according to the latest advice issued by Public Health England. People are being advised not to ring NHS 111 to report their symptoms unless they are worried. They should also not go to their GP, or A&E. Details for Scotland are to check NHS inform, then ring your GP in office hours, or 111 out-of-hours. In Wales call NHS 111, and in Northern Ireland, call your GP. If you have come into contact with somebody who may be infected, you may be told to self-isolate. Advice for people who have travelled back to the UK from affected areas and who may need to self-isolate, has been issued. Other countries have introduced their own measures. For example, the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention advise people showing symptoms to call their healthcare provider, and those who are mildly ill to self-isolate.

The World Health Organisation has also issued advice for the public. Continued overleaf

Page 20 Who gets tested and how does it work ? In its latest advice, Public Health England (PHE) has said those who are self-isolating with mild symptoms will not be tested. However, all hospital patients with flu-like symptoms will be tested. If you need testing in the UK results may be available on the same day, but you may be asked to stay at home and self-isolate. while you wait.. How fast is it spreading? Tens of thousands of new cases are being reported worldwide each day. However, it is thought health agencies may be unaware of many cases. It took 67 days from the first reported case to reach the first 100,000 cases, 11 days for the second 100,000 cases and just four days for the third 100,000 cases. Other countries have introduced their own measures. For example, the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention advise people showing symptoms to call their healthcare provider and those who are mildly ill to self-isolate.

The World Health Organisation has also issued advice for the public. END

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