As part of a debate on a motion to recognise Local Heroes at tonight’s South Glos Council meeting, Katie Cooper, Labour Councillor for Staple Hill and Mangotsfield said: “I would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank the volunteers who have stepped up and supported those shielding in the community. Across our constituencies we have had 100s of volunteers completing numerous tasks, shopping, collecting prescriptions, walking dogs, gardening, unblocking toilets or simply providing contact with the outside world with a weekly phone call. It has been a privilege and an awe-inspiring experience coordinating the volunteers for Staple Hill and Mangotsfield.

Through regular contact with shielding residents I can confidently say that the volunteers have quite literally saved lives, it is therefore so important that we say Thank you, In recognising this, the Labour Group has commissioned a small gift to our volunteers, that of pin commemorating this time. The design has been taken from one of the messages of hope that was sent to shielders by local children. I support this motion, as I recognise that saying Thank you is important and deserved.”