Rays of light in troubling times

So far islanders have largely embraced Public Health’s advice as and when it is issued, and in many cases there is a desire to go quicker and further in changing the way we live and interact for the wider good.

As in the UK, where people and business go, the government has followed.

So even before social distancing advice was being offered, some in industry had split offices and shifted to home working.

Anyone taking a relaxed approach to travel off-island is met with scorn from other islanders and reminded of the risk that it poses to the more vulnerable in our community.

Different sports' governing bodies have already suspended their programmes and events as we wait to hear what the official advice will be today.

We can all see what is happening elsewhere, what has been effective and what hasn’t in combatting the spread of Covid-19 and make judgement calls.

What is heartening is the response to far to the different official measures, even if it has meant the loss of what would have only weeks ago been seen as important.

The island spirit is also on show, not least at the Duke of Richmond Hotel as it offers to deliver free meals to elderly neighbours.

You can expect others to follow in this community-focussed way – it is what island life is about, a ray of sunshine in troubling times.

There is no doubt that the weeks and months ahead will be extremely tough.

Everyone will be leading very different lives to the ones they are used to and we all need to be mindful of others, especially those that could end up isolated by the different measures needed.

Faith is needed that the authorities will act as and when necessary, but they need to put aside the fear that somehow the population will just get bored.

As has been seen by the actions already taken, many are united and willing to do what it takes.