KEIGHLEY & Ilkley MP Robbie Moore says the latest national lockdown is “extremely disappointing” but necessary.

He said that without the further action to curb rising Covid-19 infection rates, the NHS was in danger of becoming overwhelmed.

Mr Moore told us: “Having received dozens of emails and spoken to many people about further restrictions over the last few days, my feelings are similar to most – that it is extremely disappointing we are now having a further period of national restrictions.

“The new strain of the Covid-19 virus is much more transmissible and we are seeing a sharp rise in the number of positive cases.

“Having spoken with our local NHS providers and seen the impact on our health services in other parts of the country, I do believe these new national restrictions are a necessary decision. Although cases in the Bradford district are now much lower than the national average, they are rising. Without further action now, there is a risk the NHS could become overwhelmed.

“This pandemic has been tough on the whole country, but especially for us all across Keighley and Ilkley where we have been living under enhanced local restrictions since the end of July. None of this is easy, and another lockdown is going to be difficult.

“The Chancellor has made further announcements about more financial help being provided to businesses and unlike in March, or even during the November national restrictions, there is real light at the end of the tunnel. We now have two approved vaccines and roll-out of them is happening.”

In a message to constituents, he added: “Please be assured that as your Member of Parliament I will do all I can to support you through this difficult time and if I can be of any help, please do get in touch.”