Roads on Anglesey get new paint job in tribute to NHS workers

Some of Anglesey’s quieter than usual roads are being used to pay homage to NHS workers during the Coronavirus crisis.

Anglesey Council’s highways contractor Alun Griffiths together with R&L Roadlines & Quantum Traffic Management have this week been using their skills to good use.

Appearing in the island’s five towns of Holyhead, Llangefni, Amlwch, Menai Bridge and Beaumaris, the bilingual road markings have been painted free of charge to show public appreciation of the NHS and its dedicated workers.

The move comes after the council’s headquarters was also bathed in light last week, thanks to Amlwch based MAD Sound and Lighting (Amlwch), marking the hard work of council, NHS, volunteers, care and key workers during the pandemic.

Meanwhile, there are 37 community volunteer networks now spread across the island that offer to carry out people’s shopping, collect essential supplies and general support during lockdown.

Over 50 businesses also provide delivery services and have introduced new provisions under the current isolation guidelines, offering over the phone payments for customers and tailored their supplies to suit local demand.

This is hand in hand with four food banks that are now operational on the island, based in Holyhead, Amlwch, Llangefni and Menai Bridge.

The council leader, Llinos Medi, said: “The role of the food banks on the island, as well as all the volunteers and those contributing food and gifts regularly during the pandemic, has been essential.

“Ensuring that all partners came together under one steering group at the beginning of this emergency was essential as regards the response to the intense needs of our communities.

“As partners, volunteers and communities, we are working hard and are continuing to ensure supplies and care for the most vulnerable individuals and families.”

“We have a huge debt of gratitude to everyone who has ensured that community support has been a success on Anglesey, during what has been one of the darkest times for our Island.”

Anglesey’s Head of Housing Services and who is also the councils’ Senior Responsible Officer for Communities during this pandemic, Ned Michael, added his amazement of the island’s spirit during this challenging period,

“It is very humbling seeing so many individuals, communities and businesses coming together to help during these difficult times,” he said.

“So far we have seen two new pop-up food banks being established across the Island, community volunteer networks offering support and businesses offering services in order to safeguard Anglesey’s communities, and help and protect those most vulnerable within our society.”

“New schemes have also been created during this difficult time highlighting the social fabric which has been sewn within our communities. Schemes such as Neges, created in partnership with Menter Môn and with the support from Welsh Government and Dylan’s.”

“This has been a pioneering project with the aim of providing a food delivery service for those most vulnerable within our society, such as older people receiving domiciliary care.

“Anglesey’s communities really have pulled together during the past five weeks and this resilient network will undoubtedly help us through the challenging times ahead.”

By Gareth Williams – Local Democracy Reporter