From Friday evening additional restrictions will come into effect across all of Wales, introduced by the Welsh Government, following advice from scientific and medical professionals, that a “fire-break” will help contain the spread of the virus and our NHS from becoming overwhelmed. These additional restrictions are designed to completely reduce non-essential contact between individuals and bring the R rate of the virus down as much as possible.

Despite the introduction of local lockdowns in areas with rises cases of coronavirus, we have continued to see increases across Wales.

Last week the First Minister mentioned that we are seeing over 2,500 new infections daily and the pressures on the NHS have already increased significantly, with hundreds already hospitalised due to the virus.

These new measures are being introduced so that we can save lives and protect the NHS from being stretched further.

We know that this virus is extremely infectious and can have a serious impact on some of our most vulnerable in our communities. Even though some people may not present with symptoms and will only be mildly impacted by the virus, they can still pass the virus on to others. Sadly for some people the catching the virus could be fatal.

I continue to be available to support constituents, and businesses, with any questions and queries they have about the current circumstances. I will do my best to ensure that the correct information is being shared amongst the community and would encourage people to follow my Facebook page – Hannah Blythyn MS – where I will share as much information as possible.

These additional measures will undoubtedly be difficult for many, but I would like to assure Leader readers, that the decision has not been taken lightly. Behind every number of infections, of hospitalisations, of those in critical care beds, and sadly, of those who die from this virus, is person. A partner, a sibling, a parent, a grandparent, a friend.

We know that both business and workers will be impacted by the current circumstances. We have so many brilliant businesses locally, businesses that should be able to access the additional £300 million support package that the Welsh Government has set up. I know this support will make a difference to our businesses and I will do all I can to support businesses in accessing the funding, as I have done throughout this year.

We cannot simply look at this from a perspective of “numbers”. We have a responsibility as a community, as a county and as a country, to each do our best to prevent the spread of this virus and to save lives.

So please ensure that you do follow the new measures which are being brought in for just over two weeks, so that we can bring the virus under as much control as possible and save hundreds, if not thousands, of more lives from being taken too soon.

For any constituents who do have questions or queries about the current circumstances, or any other issues, then please do get in touch on 01352 762102 or by emailing me at Hannah.Blythyn@senedd.wales