Aylesbury's MP praises community spirit a year on from the first lockdown announcement
Rob Butler has also said the pandemic highlighted areas of concern for the town
Last updated 23rd Mar 2021
Aylesbury's MP has been reflecting on the last year and its impact on the area.
On March 23rd 2020 the Prime Minister announced a national lockdown would be coming into force, with regulations introduced to ensure people followed the rules.
Since then there have been various levels of restrictions put in place, with current lockdown easing slowly.
Rob Butler MP, says one thing that has struck him is the community spirit across Aylesbury:
"There has been a phenomenal community spirit across the country but especially in my community and there are a few examples that really stand out.
"The tremendous volunteer effort in Stokenchurch, which went above and beyond with the team giving a real life line to people.
"In Bedgrove the network they created to get prescriptions out from the pharmacy but also checking in on people at the same time.
"Then there was the fantastic effort in Hughenden Valley where people were going to the shops and filling baskets for people who weren't able to get out.
"I think it showed some astonishing community spirit that came out so quickly and I was really proud to see it and be a small part when I could lend a hand.
"But I think its also important to recognise the astonishing work the NHS has done, but especially Bucks Healthcare."
READ MORE: Rainbows, vaccines and Dominic Cummings' eyesight: looking back at a year of lockdown
Rob explained that local authorities and groups working together has helped showcase the best of the community.
It has also helped understand who needed help, from businesses to vulnerable people.
Rob explains that one consequence of the pandemic and following lockdowns was highlighting issues in local towns:
"In some ways it accelerated the challenges that were already there in Aylesbury and other towns.
"We already had some stores closing down but we have more empty units than we likely would have had.
READ MORE: The UK marks lockdown anniversary with minute's silence and doorstep vigil
"I think the government, MPs, the local authority and enterprises have had to work very fast to solve those problem that were already bubbling away.
"In many ways everyone pulled together very effectively, with a real sense of direction, because there was such an urgency.
"It has been good to focus minds and show councils and governments can act quickly when they need to
"So I hope what we are seeing are the green shoots of a regenerated Aylesbury."