IT NEVER ceases to amaze me how much people nowadays think they are entitled to help from any and every resource. The last pandemic during WW1 saw no social media contact, no ability to telephone your loved ones every day, no 'face time', no handouts from government, etc. Whilst appreciated, government cannot afford to pay for everyone's salaries guaranteed; a substantial number were given 80% of their salary during the first lockdown and the second wave may result in two thirds of salaries being paid for some (which isn't enough apparently). Taxes will no doubt have to rise significantly to help pay for all this in the medium to longer term.

People continue to breach rules despite warnings which is the main cause of the second wave (e.g. large numbers of people attending weddings, etc, people attending friends' and relatives' homes against advice) and they should not benefit from government handouts. Unlike the major pandemic 100 years ago, collectively, a significant (albeit relatively small) minority are making this whole situation worse by ignoring guidelines, flocking to towns and cities before any lockdown is in place to make up for the time when the pubs and restaurants are closed.

The scene in Liverpool was an utter disgrace; we had similar issues in Bournemouth over the summer. Admittedly the UK government should perhaps lock down within 24 or 48 hours rather than giving several days notice to avoid these issues but come on – stand up and act like a civilised and responsible citizens.

Follow the rules and maybe Covid will be under control for longer enabling shops, restaurants and other facilities/businesses to remain open for all.

Maria Williams

Wool