Last week’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations signalled the start of the most extensive programme of local events ever to be staged, which will touch all corners of Warwick District this summer.

It was wonderful to see thousands of people enjoying the festivities over the bank holidays, bringing communities together across our towns and villages. The celebrations in Warwick were even featured in the official Royal Family video! There will certainly be no post-Jubilee respite for our teams as we prepare to host this weekend’s Pub in the Park, while preparations are also in full swing for the start of the Commonwealth Games in just 47 days.

It’s thanks to the success of the vaccine programme that Covid-19 infections have fallen and we can now safely engage in this array of community activity. Please continue to be mindful that Covid is still very much with us and remains a risk, so let’s protect our loved ones from serious illness and keep-up our immunity levels by taking a booster when offered.

In other news:

• Energy costs. A government grant when added to the hardship fund we created in our budget, now enables us to launch a special scheme to help the most vulnerable households with the rising energy costs. Look out for the eligibility details and information on how to apply for a grant, which will be shared in the coming days. 
• All go for 123+. Ahead of the start of our new waste collection service on 1 August, the delivery of new food caddies and large, blue-lidded recycling bins will begin in parts of the district next week. You can visit our website for a comprehensive list of FAQs about the new service.

Clean Air is vital for a healthy life and as part of our Climate Emergency Action Plan we’re partnering with local campaign group Clean Air Warwickshire to spread awareness of the harmful impacts of air pollution. To find out more about what we’re doing to tackle this scourge, Clean Air Warwickshire is hosting an information stand outside Leamington Town Hall on Saturday 11 June. Why not drop by to find out what you can do to join our collective efforts to improve local air quality. There will also be updates on our website and social media channels using the hashtag #CleanAirDay.

And finally, good luck to all those taking part in Sunday’s two Castles Run. This iconic 10km event links the district’s two beautiful castles, and is now in its 38th year, growing from a simple fun run to a hugely successful fundraising event. It’s also a wonderful spectacle, so please come out to cheer the participants on… the start is at 9am from Warwick Castle.

Keep smiling and stay safe.

Cllr Andrew Day
Leader, Warwick District Council

Chris Elliott
Chief Executive, Warwick District Council