The coronavirus has been tough for all of us in different ways, but for those in the hospitality and tourism sector, it has been devastating. That is why there is now a huge push to support the industry to ensure that once the virus is over, we will still have thriving pubs, bar, restaurants and cafés.
At the beginning of this week, we launched the ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme that offers everyone 50% off their meal up to the value of £10 per person Monday-Wednesday. A huge number of our local establishments have signed up. Within 5 miles of Chichester, Midhurst and Selsey, there are over 130 options for us to enjoy. To find out where you can go to take advantage of the scheme and support your local, search on the .gov postcode finder – I have put a link on the homepage of my website – www.gilliankeegan.com
Our area has some unique tourism and cultural offers, so it is no surprise that the Minister for Tourism and Heritage, Nigel Huddleston chose to visit Chichester at the end of last week. I joined him on his way through the constituency at the Blue Bell BnB in Cocking. Before he continued to some of our key attractions like Chichester Cathedral, the Weald and Downland Living Museum and the Fishbourne Roman Palace.
Many of you will know that this weekend we were also meant to hold the UK's largest public event pilot at Goodwood Racecourse. Sadly, due to spikes in other parts of the country, it had to be cancelled. I am very disappointed for the Goodwood team who worked tirelessly with the Government and Public Health England in preparation to ensure it was safe – and on a personal note, I was looking forward to a fun day out.
There is disappointment across the sporting sector with other pilots cancelled for cricket and snooker too. I fully appreciate the enormity of these decisions on people lives and livelihoods. Not just in sport but all the industries that cannot open such as theatres, cinemas and bowling alleys. The Government have to grapple with each decision, carefully balancing the needs of our health with the needs of businesses and the economy. None of these decisions are easy to make.
We all want life to return to normal and to open up the economy, but it is a balancing act, and our first priority will always be to keep people safe. I am sure this won’t be the last disappointment that Covid causes, however, we will keep our resolve in fighting this virus.
