'You are putting lives at risk': 'Selfish' Covid rule breakers 'could send Walsall into high level lockdown'
“Selfish” Covid rule breakers could send Walsall plunging into a high level lockdown, council bosses have warned.
Stephen Craddock, Walsall Council’s portfolio holder for health and wellbeing, said their hopes of lifting the town out of current coronavirus restrictions in time for Christmas were diminishing due to people deliberately flouting the rules.
Walsall was placed in ‘Alert Level 2’ under the Government’s tier system, which meant there was a high risk for residents.
But an increasing number of cases during the past few weeks have led to growing concerns the borough could soon be placed into the highest tier.
Councillor Craddock said: “I find it difficult to reconcile the selfless behaviour of our health and care professionals who did everything in their power to keep us safe with the utter selfish behaviour of some members of the community who deliberately flout the restrictions and guidelines.
“Whether it’s a party, wedding or any gathering of more than six people, you have a personal responsibility to comply with the regulations to reduce the spread of the virus.
“In particular, wearing a face mask in a shop or supermarket isn’t difficult. There is a simple message here, if you haven’t got a medical condition that prevents you wearing a mask, wear one.
“Wash your hands, cover your face and make space by socially distancing.
'Terminal'
“Our goal is to be downgraded to Tier 1 by Christmas so groups of up to six people can celebrate the holiday together.
“Sadly, our infection rate has continued to rise steeply and there is likely to be additional restrictions by moving into Tier 3 if this continues.”
Council leader Mike Bird added: “If you are selfish enough to ignore the rules then I’m sorry, you don’t belong to be in the wider community of Walsall because you are putting lives at risk.
“For goodness sake, listen.
“Otherwise the result is terminal not only for you but the people you mix with, which could be your relatives or your friends.”
