I think we can all agree that the recent stage of shop opening which happened on Monday for many shops in the city was well and truly enjoyed and appreciated by everyone.  Judging by the queues which were shown in the Worcester News people were very happy at this point to return towards a more normal way of life.  Even though at the moment we have to observe two metre social distancing, it is lovely to be able to actually see what we are buying up close.

Talking of football, which we weren’t, another very welcome development this week has been the success of the campaign by Marcus Rashford, the 22-year-old Manchester United and England footballer.  Marcus wrote an open letter to MPs describing his own childhood and asking them to extend the free school meal vouchers to continue throughout the summer holidays.  This means that those 1.3 million children who are eligible should now not go hungry during the holidays.  A great achievement for such a young player to influence a government decision – it shows that the popularity of football has an amazing ability to instigate change.

It is disappointing that the annual Worcester City Run will not take place this September because of the current situation.  I was looking forward to officially starting the Run – but it’s even more of a real shame for all the citizens who look forward to this annual challenge. It is wonderful news that the virtual runs will take place to raise money for the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust – so good luck to all you virtual runners!

Monday is Armed Forces Day and a flag will be raised on the roof of the Guildhall to remember all those brave men and women who put themselves on the frontline to protect us, our freedoms and our way of life.  We remember them and their families especially on this day.  It was very sad to hear the news on Thursday of the death of Dame Vera Lynn.  She was an inspiration and a source of hope during the dark days of WW2 and she was loved by everyone.