Have Your Say on Police Funding and Priorities

Have Your Say on Police Funding and Priorities

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Cheshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) is asking you what your policing priorities are as part of a new consultation.
PCC David Keane has launched an online survey to obtain the views of Cheshire residents to find out your priorities for policing and community safety.
As well as asking what your top priority for Cheshire Police is, he also wants to know how safe you feel in your area and if you would support a £1.25 per month increase to the policing precept element of council tax to address increasing pressures on Cheshire Constabulary.
You can complete the online survey here: https://wh1.snapsurveys.com/siam/surveylanding/surveylogin.asp?sk=160759151682
The online consultation will be supported by virtual public engagement sessions that the Commissioner will hold with Chief Constable Darren Martland during the next three weeks.
They will provide residents with the opportunity to talk directly to the Commissioner and Chief Constable about their views on community safety issues and the precept.
They will take place on the following dates:
Tuesday 12 January, 6.30pm-8pm
Saturday 16 January, 1pm-2.30pm
Tuesday 19 January, 6.30pm-8pm
If you would like to attend one of the virtual sessions please email your name and address, the date of the session you’d like to attend and your question for the commissioner or chief constable to pcc@cheshire.pnn.police.uk. Registration for each session closes 24 hours before it takes place. The link to join the sessions will be emailed to those registered shortly before each session.
Questions can also be submitted by those unable to attend the sessions to pcc@cheshire.pnn.police.uk using the subject title ‘question’.
The consultation has been launched following the release of the government’s Provisional Police Funding Settlement which sets out local police budgets for the next financial year.
PCC David Keane said: “2020 was one of the most challenging years in living memory and I know that many of us are anxious about the future.
“The pandemic has shown us just how important policing and other key public services are when it comes to protecting our communities.
“Unfortunately, COVID-19 has also made the future financial position for policing even more challenging.
“Funding for Cheshire Police has been cut significantly by the government over the last decade. We have made more than £60 million of savings during this time, whilst striving to ensure this vital service remains effective.
“During this period, I’ve maintained my commitment to bring back real community policing to Cheshire. With the support of the public, I have been able to increase officer numbers to ensure every community in Cheshire has its own dedicated Police Constable and Police Community Support Officer.
“The funding referred to by the government is dependent on local residents paying more in council tax (£1.25 a month for the average Band D property) over the next year.
“The Chief Constable has confirmed that without this increase, Cheshire Police would be unable to maintain our existing level of service and that we would not be able to continue investing in a visible, truly local policing service that also addresses complex issues and serious and organised crime in our communities.
“As your voice in policing, I want to hear your views on this proposal and I want to know what your policing priorities are for the coming year.
“Please take the time to the complete the short survey and have your say.”
https://wh1.snapsurveys.com/siam/surveylanding/surveylogin.asp?sk=160759151682
The consultation closes at midnight on Sunday 24 January 2021.

Message Sent By
Daniel Millington (Cheshire Police / Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, Media Officer, Corporate Communications)

Destruction of Crewe Town part 4

Cheshire East moved into Covid-19 alert tier 4 ‘Stay at Home’

Cheshire East is to move into Covid-19 alert tier 4 – ‘Stay at Home”

The change will apply from one minute past midnight, in the early hours of Thursday 31 December.

The key changes will mean: 

• You must not leave or be outside of your home or garden except where you have a ‘reasonable excuse’, such as for work, education, medical reasons and exercise;
• People who are clinically extremely vulnerable are advised to shield;
• Non-essential shops must close;
• Hair, beauty, tanning and nail salons must close; and
• Leisure and sports facilities such as leisure centres, gyms and indoor swimming pools must close.

Visit the government website for full details of tier 4 restrictions at: gov.uk/guidance/tier-4

Responding to the government’s decision to move Cheshire East into tier 4, Councillor Sam Corcoran, leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “I implore all residents and businesses in Cheshire East to adhere to the government’s tier 4 restrictions without exception. We will be working with partners to support people with these changes but will not hesitate to enforce the regulations where necessary.

“It is also vital that we all continue to observe the basics of hands, face, space.  Remember, the virus spreads through droplets breathed out by an infected person. If we do the right thing and keep our distance, we cannot spread the infection.

“At this stage we do not know how long we will be subject to tier 4 restrictions, but, as previously announced by government, we anticipate a review in two weeks’ time.” 

Councillor Craig Browne, deputy leader of Cheshire East Council, added: “This change will have a significant impact on local businesses, and we will be doing everything within our power and resources to support them.

“We are also reviewing the impact on council services and how we deliver them. Some services, such as leisure centres and libraries will close, however there may be circumstances where some of these facilities can open for specific activities, such as job clubs. We will review all services to ensure that we can deliver them safely.

Dr Matt Tyrer, Cheshire East Council’s director of public health, said: “We are now seeing infection rates in Cheshire East of more than 200 cases per 100,000 people over seven days. This is a significant increase from the numbers we were seeing just a few days ago when we moved to tier 3.

“We have heard today that a second kind of vaccine has been approved for use in UK.  This is great news, but our optimism must be tempered by a determination to stick to the basics – don’t forget ‘hands, face, space’ and you must make sure that if you have symptoms, you self-isolate and get a test.  Self-isolating means that you do not leave your home for any reason, other then to get a test or in the case of emergency.”

Visit the Cheshire East Council website for more information about support, advice and guidance for businesses and individuals, including those who need financial help, or who need additional support because they are shielding.

Festive funding boost for Crewe regeneration plans

30 December 2020

Crewe’s future has received a festive boost after the government announced its funding support for several new projects that will pave the way for further town centre regeneration.

Cheshire East Council has received an ‘in principle’ offer of £14.1m to be invested in the town over the next three years.  This follows a bid by the council to the government’s Future High Streets Fund last summer.

Councillor Nick Mannion, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for environment and regeneration, said: “This is great news for Crewe, as well as Cheshire East as a whole, and demonstrates that government and our local partners have confidence in our shared regeneration plans for the town centre.

“To be awarded funding via the Future High Streets Fund is a real achievement considering the strong competition from across the country.

He added: “This announcement comes hot on the tails of other projects that have taken a huge leap forward in recent months, including the redevelopment of Crewe Market Hall, which reopens in the spring, and the ongoing demolition of the vacant shops at the Royal Arcade.”

Nationally, 101 towns bid for funding, which totalled more than was available via the Future High Streets Fund.

It means that most towns – including Crewe – have been allocated a reduced amount to focus on key priorities.

Crewe’s allocation is the 22^nd highest amount awarded to any town. 

The council will now evaluate which projects from its shortlist will be taken forward and more information will be announced in the coming weeks. 

Doug Kinsman, chair of Crewe Town Board, said: “Securing this funding is a timely boost for Crewe, but it only forms part of our plans for the biggest investment that Crewe has ever seen. 

"We’re currently working with partners to develop a Town Investment Plan, which we hope will pave the way for a further £25m of investment in regeneration projects across the town over the next five years.”   

Recent Burglaries

Recent Burglaries

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Good Afternoon,
I hope you had a lovely Christmas.
I wanted to make you aware that on the Crewe East area there have three burglaries to outbuildings over the past two nights.
We would like to reinforce advice that we have given in the past. Please be vigilant. Make sure that all of your property is locked, windows, doors and if possible make sure curtains or blinds are closed making it harder for opportunists to see what's in your property. Remember to lock outbuildings such as sheds garages and greenhouses if possible. Outdoor lighting is also a great deterrent along with CCTV.
To accompany this it is always good to stay in touch with neighbours, it is surprising how quickly word spreads when there has been suspicious activity in the area.
If you do see something please report it to us on 101 in a non emergency and 999 in an emergency.
I hope this information is useful and I wish you a Happy New Year.
Kind Regards, Stay Safe.
PCSO Tim Davey 22591

Queens Park Crewe December 2020

Cheshire East return to school planning

Yesterday, the government announced a staggered return to school in the New Year, for education settings with secondary aged pupils (including secondary schools, colleges and special schools with secondary-age pupils).

Individual schools will be confirming the revised start of term dates with families once they have determined whether they need the additional inset day the DfE has proposed to help them plan and train for testing in schools.

We are working closely with schools to agree a consistent and planned approached to testing in settings with secondary aged pupils to start from January.  We are considering a phased approach to ensure this is managed safely.  Once this is agreed schools will contact families to make them aware of plans for testing in schools and will seek appropriate consent.

Primary schools will return as normal and any testing is unlikely to start until February.

These measures do not apply to early years providers

Weather Warning - Road Safety

Weather Warning - Road Safety

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Good evening,
There has been Met Office warnings issued for Cheshire East which are Active Yellow Warning Of Wind - Yellow Warning Of Rain - Yellow Warning Of Ice - Yellow Warning For Snow.
We're asking you to drive with care and to plan for extra time before your journeys so that you do not rush.
More information can be found on the BBC Weather Website.
Thank you for your time.
We care about the safety of our community.
Kind regards,
PCSO Lizzie Jolley 22582

Attempted Breaks - Haslington and Stowford - Useful Tips Included For Better Home Security

Attempted Breaks - Haslington and Stowford - Useful Tips Included For Better Home Security

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Good evening,
I am emailing this evening to make you aware of the recent attempted breaks in the Haslington and Stowford areas.
There has been both shed and residential attempts locally and therefore we are asking our community to ensure that their homes and outhouses have decent locks and home security.
Below are some suggestions to consider :-
1. Check your front door for potential weakness.
2.Use timers and radios to make it seem like someone is home.
3.Lock windows and doors when not at your property.
4.Lock doors even when at your property.
5.Keep your keys out of sight.
6.Let there be light onto your property, for example security lights.
7.Use warning signs such as CCTV.
8.Invest in decent CCTV if you have the funds, but dummy cameras are also good. They can be purchased at places like B&M.
9.Think like a burglar and think about weakness on your property.
10.Do not prop bins against walls that lead to windows or flat roofs.
11.Stay in contact with your neighbours, a good neighbour is the best natural surveillance.
12.Start or join a neighbourhood watch team for your road, whether that's via Cheshire Alert, WhatsApp or other networks such as NEXTDOOR.
13.Trust your instinct, if something doesn't feel or seem right, email me on lizzie.jolley@cheshire.pnn.police.uk to pass on intelligence, or call 101 to report crime, but 999 always in an emergency.
Thank you for your time.
Stay safe.
Kind regards,
PCSO Lizzie Jolley 22582

Community Monthly Update - Haslington and Rural Villages In Crewe East

Community Monthly Update - Haslington and Rural Villages In Crewe East

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Good afternoon,
We wanted to give you a small update on our work done this month in the Haslington and Rural Villages in Crewe East Community.
In the month of December 2020, we have been able to visit our faith communities at a safe social distance and engage with their festive services.
We have also been out doing speed enforcement regularly this month, being present at key locations which have been requested by members of our community
Our latest speed enforcement session was on the 24th of December 2020, with 8 vehicles being caught speeding. Our highest speed for this session was 53MPH.
This month we have been socially distance visiting vulnerable members of our community who live alone, and talking to them through a window to ensure that they have the support that they need.
We have patrolled all of our villages this month which covers, Haslington, Winterley, Stowford, Crewe Green, Basford, Wheelock Heath, Radway Green, Englesea Brook, Barthomley, Stowford and Weston.
This month we are encouraging members of our community to check their home and outhouse security as this has been we have seen an increase in shed breaks and attempted burglary's.
On the community side of what's been happening in our area, we have seen some outstanding efforts from our Haslington Support Group supporting local families, members of our communities collecting for food banks and best of all have seen the faces of those of all ages joining in on the 'Wizard Of Oz Trail' around the Haslington Village.
Regardless of the difficult circumstances that COVID-19 has given us this year, our community has pulled together and has made our villages feel safer and happier.
We would also like to make you aware of a member of our community named Lorna, who is 26 years old. Lorna has recently given birth to twin babies and unfortunately has since been diagnosed with terminal breast cancer. Many of our community have been amazing in offering support to Lorna and her family, so this message is to say a big thank you to you all! As a community, it's so reassuring to know that we always have others looking out for each other.
We have posted the link below so that you can read more about their story. Our links often don't work on Cheshire Alert, so please feel free to message lizzie.jolley@cheshire.pnn.police.uk if it does not work and I forward it over to you.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/raising-funds-for-lorna-her-family?utm_medium=email&utm_source=product&utm_campaign=p_email%2B4803-donation-alert-v5
We will continue to keep you updated on our daily patrols on our Facebook and Twitter pages.
Thank you for your time.
Kind regards,
PCSO Lizzie Jolley 22582

Is Your Vehicle Weather Ready?

Is Your Vehicle Weather Ready?

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Good afternoon,
I hope that you are well at this festive time.
This message today is to remind you to ensure that your vehicle is 'weather ready' as it is now officially winter!
Please ensure that you have screen wash, fuel, something to be able clear your window screens with and that your vehicle is road worthy with current tax, insurance and MOT.
Many of us will be using our vehicles tomorrow for the first time in weeks or even months for some, so please take the time to ensure that your vehicle is safe and legal to drive.
The gritters have been around locally, therefore this can indicate that cold and icy weather is expected. Please plan ahead of your journey with extra time so that you do not speed.
Stay safe.
Kind regards,
PCSO Lizzie Jolley 22582

Cheshire East leaders urge people and businesses to ‘do the right thing’ this Christmas and New Year

Cheshire East Council leaders are calling on residents and businesses to comply with all Covid-19 restrictions over the festive season, particularly when out and about, shopping and enjoying our town centres and villages.

The move from tier 2 to tier 3 - ‘Very High Alert’ level on Boxing Day means that pubs, restaurants and cafes can only open for takeaway. Shops will remain open as before.

Councillor Sam Corcoran, leader of the council, said: “The increase in infection rates we have seen recently is of significant concern. I hope that the move to tier 3 restrictions helps to get rates down, but I know that the new restrictions will have a significant impact, particularly on our hospitality businesses, and I am worried about how some businesses will cope.

“Clearly, we need all businesses to comply with the regulations and tier 3 restrictions. Our regulatory teams will be working with business owners, managers and staff to help them to comply. 

“Over the last few weeks, we have been working extensively with hospitality businesses. With the restrictions significantly reducing the operation of pubs and restaurants, we can now move more of our focus to shops.”

Councillor Craig Browne, deputy leader of the council added: “Boxing Day and New Year are traditionally a very busy time for retailers, and it is particularly important that they understand and apply the regulations and restrictions; however, it is also vitally important that shoppers do everything they can to maintain social distancing and reduce the risk of unwittingly spreading infection. 

“Remember – one in three people with Covid have no symptoms. We encourage people to shop local and support local businesses, but at the same time urge them to stay safe – now is not the time to forget the virus for the sake of a bargain in the post-Christmas sales.”

Any local business seeking advice about how the regulations apply to them, or if anyone has concerns about whether a business is operating in a Covid-secure manner, can contact Cheshire East Council's commercial services via: commercialservices@cheshireeast.gov.uk

For a full list of tier 3 restrictions, including information on what businesses can and cannot do, please visit: www.gov.uk/guidance/tier-3-very-high-alert

Scam Warning - Fake Dpd Emails and Texts

Scam Warning - Fake Dpd Emails and Texts

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Dear Subscriber,
Scam warning: Fake DPD emails and texts.
Action Fraud has seen a surge in reports relating to fake emails and texts purporting to be from DPD. The messages claim that DPD was “unable to deliver your parcel today” and provide instructions on how the recipient can arrange another delivery. The links in the emails and texts lead to fake websites that are designed to steal money, as well as personal and financial information.
Victims of this scam have reported losing over £242,000 since June. For more information, please visit https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/alert/fake-dpd-messages-lead-to-over-200000-in-losses-since-june
How you can protect yourself:

• If you’re unsure whether the email or text is genuine, then don’t use the link. Instead, visit the DPD website by entering the official web address directly into your browser’s address bar, or search for it and follow the search results.
• Remember, your bank will never ask you to transfer money to another account, or contact you out of the blue to ask for your PIN or full password.
• If you have received an email which you’re unsure about, you can report it by forwarding it to report@phishing.gov.uk. You can report suspicious text messages by forwarding them to 7726.

For more information about how to protect yourself from fraud and cyber crime, please visit www.actionfraud.police.uk/cybercrime

Message Sent By
Action Fraud (Action Fraud, Administrator, National)

Atm Safety Advise

Atm Safety Advise

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As Christmas time approaches, be extra vigilant when withdrawing cash from the ATM machine, it’s all to easy to get distracted especially when we are so busy this time of year, here is some useful information to share for your safety when using the ATM.
Common sense is your best guide to using an ATM safely. If you suspect something isn’t quite right, trust your instincts. Use an ATM or a bank branch where you feel more comfortable.
• If possible, use a machine that is located in a bank location. It may be easier for criminals to tamper with a machine that is in a non-bank location, such as a grocery store, deli or shopping mall.
• Choose an ATM that is well lighted and monitored by a surveillance camera or a security guard.
• If you are using an indoor ATM that requires your card to open the door, avoid letting anyone that you do not know come in with you. Once inside the vestibule, make sure the door is completely closed behind you.
• Before proceeding with your transaction, look around to guard against surveillance by anyone who may arouse your slightest suspicion.
• Minimize your time at the ATM. Have your card ready. If you are making a deposit using an envelope, seal the envelope before you head to the ATM.
• Use your free hand to cover the ATM keyboard while you type in your Personal Identification Number (PIN).
• Do not re-enter your PIN if the ATM swallows your card - contact the bank immediately.
• If you see anything suspicious, immediately cancel your transaction and leave. Confirm with your financial institution as soon as possible that the transaction was indeed canceled.
• Make sure to place your money, card and receipt securely in your wallet/purse or on your person before leaving the ATM.
• At a drive-up ATM, keep your engine running, lock all your doors, and close all windows except your own. When using an indoor ATM, be sure to lock your car and take your keys with you; do not ever leave your car running.
• Always request a receipt for your transaction. Compare your receipts to your monthly statements.
• Keep your PIN and your account information secret. Never give information about your ATM card or PIN to strangers or to anyone over the telephone.
• If your ATM card is lost or stolen report it to your bank immediately. Report the unauthorized use of an ATM machine or ATM card to your bank and to your local police precinct immediately.
Please share, stay safe and Happy Christmas
Pcso Penny Probin.
Facebook / Twitter – Crewe Central Police #wecare #crewecentral #OpATMosphere #staysafe

Message Sent By
Penny Probin (Police, Community Support Officer, Crewe LPU)

December 2020 Enewsletter - Firelink

December 2020 Enewsletter - Firelink

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Welcome to the December edition of the Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service e-Newsletter.

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Year review of 2020

Like most people, 2020 has been particularly busy for us, with the addition of supporting communities throughout covid. Here's a snapshot of what 2020 was like for our staff.
Watch - Year review of 2020

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Think twice before you drink/drug drive

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, Cheshire Police and the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner are urging the public to stop and think before travelling on the roads after having a drink this Christmas. 
Officers across the county will be out throughout December cracking down on those who think it is acceptable to travel on the roads whilst under the influence as part of a national operation.
They will also be targeting motorists in the mornings who could still be over the limit.
Firefighters will be raising awareness of the dangers of taking to the roads after drinking or taking drugs throughout the month in a bid to reduce the number of serious and fatal collisions.
Find out more - Think twice before you drink/drug drive

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Christmas safety

Give Santa a helping hand this Christmas by following his Christmas safety tips. Many of the things we enjoy during this festive period, such as the fairy lights, candles, paper hats and decorations, can all be fire hazards when proper care is not taken.
Find out more - 12 days of Christmas - fire safety tips

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Could you be a paid on-call firefighter?

We are recruiting for paid on-call firefighters at the following fire stations: Alsager, Audlem, Birchwood, Bollington, Frodsham, Holmes Chapel, Macclesfield, Malpas, Nantwich, Northwich, Poynton, Sandbach, Stockton Heath, Tarporley and Winsford Fire Stations.
Could you be an on-call firefighter?
We're looking for enthusiastic individuals with common sense, the ability to work as part of a team and able to deal with physically and emotionally demanding situations. Qualifications aren't necessary, applicants just need to be at least 18 years old and physically and medically fit with good hearing and eyesight.
Potential recruits also need to be able to reach their local fire station within five minutes of home or work and have a real interest in the fire and rescue service and helping in the community. The role attracts an average income in the region of £5000 a year.
Find out more - On-call firefighter recruitment

Message Sent By
Ashley Lawton (Cheshire Police / Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, Administrator, Corporate Communications)

Council encourages residents to get walking to stay well this winter

Cheshire East Council is encouraging residents to make the most of the milder winter weather this December by taking a walk.

As we continue to live under the restrictions that the coronavirus has required, it is really important for people to focus on what they can do, and that could mean getting up on your feet and going for a stroll.

Walking is a form of exercise that you can do alone or, providing that you socially distance from fellow walkers in doing so, in a group of up to six people. The benefits of walking can be felt very positively in your physical and mental health.

Dr Matt Tyrer, Cheshire East Council director of public health, said: “As a lot of us will not be leaving our homes to visit friends and family this year for the festive celebrations, it becomes even more important that we try to stay active over the two-week holiday that many people will be taking.

“For many, the Christmas break is a time of rest and relaxation and I very much encourage that. It has been a difficult year and we all need some time to rest and recuperate. But that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t leave our homes at all.

“A walk, whatever length it might be, can be really good for the mind and body and even a ten-minute stroll can give real benefits.”

Covid safety guidance continues to encourage us to walk wherever possible to avoid using public transport. For both Tier 2 and Tier 3 areas, the Rule of 6 must be complied with in outdoor public spaces – following guidance which includes social distancing and frequent hand hygiene. Full details can be found on the ‘Local restriction tiers: what you need to know’ government guidance.

While the weather appears mild, walking and being outdoors can encourage runny noses, therefore carrying tissues and hand gel is a good idea. Outdoor public spaces include parks, beaches, countryside accessible to the public, forests, public gardens and grounds of a heritage site.

Movement between areas operating in a different tier continues to be discouraged unless it is for work, education, youth services, to receive medical treatment, or due to caring responsibilities.

Public Health England’s ‘One You’ campaign says that a ten-minute brisk walk is recognised as good exercise, as it raises the heart rate and improves fitness. This could be a very important part of realising your 2021 health and wellbeing goals.

Covid-19: Rapid testing pilots take place across Cheshire East this week

A pilot scheme of rapid testing for Covid-19 is taking place across Cheshire East this week.

The tests use a new methodology known as Lateral Flow Testing. These tests have been designed to deliver targeted and focused, rapid testing for people without typical symptoms of Covid-19.

The test just takes 30 minutes to produce a result, this is sent via email and SMS confirmation within 45-60 minutes.

Cheshire East Council volunteered to take part in the pilot programme and through this received 10,000 test kits to trial across the borough.

Although the 10,000 kits are insufficient stock to be able to open a large-scale site for the general public, the council have specially chosen vulnerable groups and willing volunteers to take part in the trial. 

Trials take place this week in the following six different pilot groups;

• Cheshire Fire – 300 Cheshire Fire employees are being tested to determine the right logistics and test frequency to protect front line staff. This could help to reduce the number of staff who may have to self-isolate if a fellow staff member tests positive and is a potential way to offer regular screening to key workers to prevent asymptomatic (showing no symptoms) spread of the infection;
• Congleton High School – A “Swab Squad” of trained testers are carrying out testing with a selected bubble, within a year 12 group. This pilot will be useful for the school through a reduction in the number of pupils having to self-isolate when a fellow pupil in their bubble tests positive;
• Springfield High School – The council is looking to determine whether access to rapid results is able to shorten the time extremely vulnerable children are out of their routine, and thereby minimise the impact to their education;
• East Cheshire Hospice - Supporting the hospice with the ability to test their administration staff, who are not covered by the national programme;
• Supported Living sites - Regular screening of staff and service users will take place before Christmas and;
• Cheshire East Council - An internal testing programme with the council’s Early Help & Prevention team will take place to look at how testing can be integrated as an additional safe measure for staff.

Dr Matt Tyrer, Director of Public Health for Cheshire East Council said: “These pilots are invaluable to our learning about Covid-19, the testing process and how we roll out bigger scale tests to best serve our residents in Cheshire East.

“The testing kits are good for helping to find people who aren’t showing Covid-19 symptoms provided that they are administered properly. That is why we are currently carrying out focussed training and pilot testing of the kits in different settings. This will enable us to deliver an effective screening programme to identify people who are asymptomatic.

“The test is quick to take and provides rapid results in just 30 minutes. This means that when a negative result is received that person can go about their normal day and not have to isolate whilst waiting for results.

“During busy testing periods it can take up to 72 hours to receive the results of traditional tests who have to be sent to labs.

“A positive lateral flow test does however require a second test in order to confirm the positive result. This must be a traditional one offered at testing sites. Although this is an inconvenience it doesn’t affect the 10-day isolation start date, which will commence after the lateral flow positive result itself.”

It is expected that the council will receive enough kits in the new year to be able to test 10 percent of the Cheshire East population every week.

The roll out of these rapid tests in Cheshire East does not replace the need for social distancing measures, good hand hygiene and the wearing of face masks. It’s still important for residents to remember hands, face and space.

Keep up to date by visiting: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/Covid19 or follow twitter.com/CheshireEast or facebook.com/CheshireEastCouncil