It’s great to see we are steadily moving back to normality after the Scottish Government confirmed Level 2 restrictions would apply in Clydebank, and across West Dunbartonshire and most of Scotland, from Monday.

I am pleased to see more council services able to resume and I know the reopening of West Dunbartonshire Leisure Trust and gyms across the area was welcomed news for many.

While we are continuing with the phased reopening of the council’s services, and as other businesses gradually reopen to more and more customers, I would ask you to please be patient with employees who still need to work to strict health and safety guidelines to keep us all safe.

It is very reassuring to see the number of positive coronavirus cases reducing week on week in West Dunbartonshire. The latest Public Health Scotland data says that case numbers in our area have been in single figures for several days now, and the trend has been consistently downwards for nearly a month. That, in part, is due to the three Covid vaccination centres that have been set up across West Dunbartonshire, and the staff who are involved in running them.

I want to thank everyone who has contributed to the successful running of the centres as this has been key to reducing local positive cases.

I recently had the hard task of picking this year’s winners of the Provost Civic Awards. This past year we had so many local heroes who stepped up and helped when Covid hit our communities.

This unwavering dedication was seen time and again and it makes me so proud when I hear of the great community spirit and determination to help those that are less fortunate.

As we get closer to the summer holidays I know many will be looking forward to a break away with their families. Time to relax, be together and spend quality time with your loved ones.

Whatever your plans, I hope the sun shines and you have a great time together. Be safe and continue to follow the Scottish Government guidance.