Richmond has cancelled all events as the Council's officers work hard to beat any Coronavirus in the Borough .

As part of the Council’s emergency planning procedures, officers have been reviewing all services to ensure that appropriate actions are being taken to protect residents and staff, inline with the latest Government guidance.

Cllr Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said: “Officers in the Council have been working hard to make sure that our services are prepared and resilient.

"Everyone is focused on safety and wellbeing of all our residents and staff.

“We must ensure that our services follow the ever-changing Government guidance, whilst protecting our most vulnerable residents.

“Cancelling or postponing events and closing services is not a matter of choice.

"It will be essential.

"And over the next few days, I am sure that we will have to make a number of difficult decisions about services."

Cllr Roberts also said that if events need to be cancelled, postponed or there is a closer to activities or services, Richmond will look at other ways that they can be delivered.

He also sent well wishes to residents who are already unwell and self-isolating at home, and reminded them that support is available.

And, that the council would be writing to households this week to provide more information.

Richmond Council will have to work differently to prioritise the wellbeing of everyone.

In particular, the need to prioritise vulnerable residents in most urgent need of help.

As a result, it is inevitable that services will be impacted and, in some cases reduced.

All public events held on Council premise or property are cancelled or postponed.

This includes; postponing Mayoral fundraising events, art exhibitions in our galleries, community bookings in our parks and open spaces, sporting events and other bookings in York House.

Residents who have bought tickets for Council run-events or have hired venues, will be contacted directly to discuss re-booking or refunds.

Whilst Council run libraries and sports centres currently remain open, both services will be under review and should Government guidance change, they may close with short notice.

“I would like to thank the valiant efforts of our health colleagues and Council staff. None of us are immune to Coronavirus and many public servants are putting their own health on the line daily to support others.

“Everyone can help buy rigidly following the Public Health England guidance. Don’t take risks. This isn’t the time. We all have a responsibility to work together to beat Coronavirus.”