MP Rachel Maclean has urged residents to continuing playing their part to save lives now that Redditch is under tier three Covid-19 restrictions.

The MP said: “With infection rates rising across Worcestershire, it was therefore understandable that we’ve been moved up to tier three. We cannot allow the Alex or Worcestershire Royal to be overwhelmed.

“We know our NHS is under enormous pressure and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone working at the Alex and across our NHS for all that they’re continuing to do to treat our loved ones.

“I know this decision will bring further disappointment for hospitability businesses in Redditch. Grants continue to be available for businesses who have been asked to close and I would urge these businesses to contact Redditch Borough Council to get the support they are entitled to.

“Tough decisions have been and continue to be made, and I know my constituents wouldn’t expect anything less. We just have to keep following the rules and playing our part in this national effort to save lives and protect our NHS.

“There is cause to be optimistic as help is on its way in the form of the vaccine. We know people in Redditch are already receiving the Pfizer vaccine and from Monday the Oxford-AstraZeneca will be rolled out. We need to get the vaccines out as fast as possible so we can lift the restrictions as soon as it is safe to do so.

“This New Year’s Eve lets follow the rules by staying at home to protect the Alex and save lives.”