By Lesley Griffiths

MS for Wrexham

With schools back up and running for the new term and the weather taking a turn for the worse, we’re reminded respiratory infections, like flu and COVID-19, can spread easily between people at this time of year.

Coronavirus may not be at the forefront of people’s minds anymore but it has not gone away and continues to evolve and mutate.

It is important to be aware of the symptoms and to take sensible precautionary measures to limit the spread of viruses. People who live with or are visiting someone with a weakened immune system should be particularly mindful.

Vaccination remains our key defence for flu and COVID-19 so if you are eligible, please take up your offer of a vaccine.

The autumn vaccination programme for Wales started on 11 September. Vaccinations are being rolled out to over 65s, at risk groups and those working or living with vulnerable people for flu and COVID-19.

Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, your family and to help the NHS during the difficult winter months.

The results of the Britain in Bloom 2023 competition were announced earlier this month and I was pleased the village of Holt was awarded a ‘Gold’ in their respective category.

Congratulations to everyone involved but special praise must go to the Holt Community Gardeners for all their hard work.

I visited Holt during the summer and could see for myself just how attractive the whole village looked. The award is very well deserved.

Attention now turns to the UK finals where Holt will be one of three Welsh representatives competing for the coveted national title. The winners are announced next month at a ceremony in London and I wish the Holt community the very best of luck.

Finally, students from St Joseph’s Catholic and Anglican High School in Wrexham visited the Senedd last week.

It was lovely to catch up and I hope everyone enjoyed their time down in Cardiff.

If any Wrexham school or youth group is interested in visiting the Senedd, there are travel subsidies available. All the information can be found online or you can email me at: lesley.griffiths@senedd.wales.

As always if you’re a constituent in Wrexham and there is something I could help you with, please do not hesitate to contact me.