New marshals employed to keep Helston streets COVID-safe

If you have been out and about in recent weeks you may have seen or met one of the new street marshals who are present on some of Cornwall's high streets since they re-opened post-lockdown.

Appointed by local Town Councils, they are on hand at the busiest times of the day to give friendly help and guidance to those visiting and working in Helston, Truro Camborne, Newquay, Redruth, St Austell, and St Ives.

These new marshals work alongside Cornwall Council's public protection officers who have been giving support and advice to businesses on reopening safely in towns and villages across Cornwall.

The public protection officers have given guidance to cafes, restaurants, pubs and hotels about ensuring social distancing; advised street traders and others such as hair braiders about being COVID secure; and worked with community safety and police teams on preventing anti-social behaviour.

Welcoming the initiative, Cornwall Council's portfolio holder for the economy Tim Dwelly said: "It's good to see people out and about in our towns again.

"Many of our high streets look very different because of the Covid-safe measures that have been put in place such as one-way signage on pavements and reminders to follow social distancing. This has been done so people can visit and work there with confidence.

"The presence of these marshals and our public protection officers play a hugely valuable role in giving a bit of extra help where needed.

"You can be assured that your safety is top-of-mind at all times, so do say a friendly 'hi' (dydh da) when you see them.

"Hopefully their presence is a reminder to everyone to be considerate, responsible and patient, too. After all, it's all being done for everyone's safety and protection - and we're all in this together."

Richard Wilcox, Falmouth BID Manager and Chair of South West BIDs added:

"There has been a significant amount of proactive work undertaken by the BIDs in Cornwall to support the business and wider communities across the county and to provide a safe welcome for considerate visitors as they look forward to visiting our special county over the coming weeks.

"Working alongside Cornwall Council, Visit Cornwall, Cornwall Chamber of Commerce and other organisations – a 'one and all' approach – our towns are working hard to provide sanitiser stations, pedestrian flow arrangements, traffic-free environments and friendly advice via street wardens and marshals. We can't wait to welcome you to Cornwall and our towns."