South Tyneside Council leader pays tribute to amazing community spirit on anniversary of first covid lockdown

Council leader Tracey Dixon has paid tribute to the efforts of everyone in South Tyneside in the fight against Covid-19

Cllr Tracey Dixon, leader of South Tyneside Council said ‘our worlds have changed’ but people had endured and adapted – and helped others less fortunate than themselves get through the tough times.

“The last 12 months have been the most challenging many of our communities have faced and I have been filled with pride time and time again at how the people of South Tyneside have come together to fight back against covid and support others in need,” she said.

"On the anniversary of the first UK lockdown we can all reflect on the challenges we have overcome, the losses and hardship we have faced, but also the brighter future we can hope for.”

Cllr Dixon hailed the work done by council teams and those of its partners to support people, and thanked everyone for doing their bit.

“From the start of the pandemic, the council and our partners have been here to support residents throughout the crisis, providing essential services and supporting those who have needed it most. We’ve helped our business community to understand and implement Government guidance, protect staff and customers and to access vital funding,” she said.

"We have been flexible and helped our communities adapt to the ever changing situation. The fight is not over, but as we cautiously move towards the next phase of recovery, we do so with a collective desire to emerge strongly and sustainably.

“Our worlds have changed, but we have shown resilience and adapted to the most testing times.”

She added: “We have drawn on each other for support and triumphed where we felt we might have floundered. I have great pride in the people of South Tyneside and know, as we face the next chapter, we will pull through together and rise to a new set of challenges."

South Shields town hall will be lit yellow tonight as part of the day of reflection organised by end-of-life charity Marie Curie.

Residents are also encouraged to show their support by putting a colourful poster in a window or by shining a light at 8pm as a symbol of hope.

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