Council fires Covid-19 warning to Bedford parents on school run

Bedford Borough Council is urging parents to remember to social distance and wear face coverings, after Covid marshals had to intervene at some school gates.

Rates remain high in Bedford borough and as children and young people have been returning to schools following half term, the council is asking everyone to play their part.

There have been reports of groups meeting outside or near schools after the school run - and the council's Covid marshals have even visited some schools to help move groups along.

The council is asking people to remember that under the current national restrictions no more than two people are allowed to meet outside in a public place. It is illegal for households to mix indoors - apart from support or childcare bubbles - which means play dates are also prohibited at this time.

Vicky Head, director of public health for Bedford borough, said: “All of our schools in the borough are working hard to make sure that children and staff are safe whilst they are at school. However, we also need the support of parents, families and carers when it comes to what happens before and after school.

"There have been reports from concerned residents and parents of gatherings of people near school gates, sometimes outside of people’s homes, particularly at pick up time. We are worried about the potential for spreading the virus that these gatherings present.

"I’d like to remind everyone doing the school run – Covid-19 has not gone away. We all need to work together to control the spread of the virus.

“Please remember to keep your distance, don’t meet with more than one other person and if you can – please wear a face covering.”