Since the precautions against the Omnicron variant were announced, I have received many emails from concerned parents about potential future school and nursery closures; this week I sought reassurance from the Schools Minister that whatever happens with the virus, he will not shut primary schools and nurseries. Children this young cannot learn online and, we have seen already the immense damage it has on their education and wellbeing, as well as the effect on parents.
I have also raised with Ministers this week the need for 12-15 years old to be able to prove their vaccination status, which is especially important for those hoping to travel abroad this Christmas. I was pleased he confirmed there will be an update next week.
With Christmas only weeks away, it has been wonderful to see the festivities underway across Sevenoaks. Last week marked Small Business Saturday, and I was delighted to join some of our much-loved local retailers in the build up to see how they were preparing. It was great to speak with Rick Staplehurst at Harvey’s, Jason How at Rotosound, Chris at Foraged and Found and Greg Chester at The Fish Shop. We all know the impact that COVID-19 has had for local businesses over the last two years, and I applaud the resolve and determination they have shown in innovating and adapting to the challenges of the pandemic.
I also have a post on my Facebook page encouraging local Christmas Markets to promote their upcoming events. Please feel free to visit my page both to promote any events you know are taking place locally, or to plan your Christmas shopping. Supporting our local businesses wherever possible is important so I encourage all to shop as local as possible.
Finally, I am thrilled to announce two competition winners. Ruby Casserley, Year 6 at Chevening St Botolph’s Church of England School is this year’s winner of my 2021 Christmas Card competition. I received over 250 entries, and I was blown away by the fantastic designs which were submitted by children ranging from 4-11 years old. Thank you to all the pupils and schools for taking part. And, on Monday I had the pleasure of judging the Riverhead Christmas window competition. So many shops have made such a great effort and whilst it was a tough decision the overall winner was Batchelors the butchers, with joint runners up being Day Lewis Chemists and Riverhead Library. My thanks to Riverhead Parish council for organising the competition and particularly to Parish Councillors Chris Kennett, Irene Collins and Janice King for asking me to judge the competition and accompanying me on the day.
As the festivities continue, please remember that the best way to protect you and your family safe this Christmas is to keep coming forward and getting vaccinated as soon as you are eligible. Anyone who as any issues please do contact me at [email protected], and I will do all I can to help.
