A NEW video has been created offering a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to residents across Barrow for all they have done to keep each other safe during the global Covid-19 pandemic.

The short film was premiered on Barrow Borough Council’s social media channels following one of the most difficult years the area has ever faced.

It features a range of people from across the community and is part of #WeAreBarrow, a campaign to acknowledge the special strengths, determination and community spirit the borough is renowned for.

Barrow Borough Council’s leader, Councillor Ann Thomson, said: “I’m thankful to everyone for sticking to the rules to protect each other throughout the pandemic.

“I have always been so proud to live in Barrow and of the way our residents, communities and businesses pull together when times are tough.

“However, we’ve never had a greater need for all of those qualities than right now.

“With Christmas upon us, it’s a difficult time of year, particularly when we’ve been apart from family and friends for so long.

“But we absolutely must keep going so we can get things back to normal as quickly as possible.”

Cumbria remained in Tier 2 (as The Mail went to press) and is deemed high risk by the government.

The #WeAreBarrow video features the Alfie Callison, the head boy at Dalton St Mary’s School; Lynne Dack, a matron at Furness General Hospital; Paul James Blezard of Chips Computers in Barrow Market; professional football coach and former Barrow AFC striker Jason Walker as well as Councillor Thomson.

Residents, businesses and local organisations are asked to share the film on their own social media accounts to help the message reach as many people as possible.

Cllr Thomson added: “2020 has been a difficult year in so many ways for all of us.

“We’ve had to make sacrifices to keep each other safe from coronavirus and to help protect our NHS and those most vulnerable in our neighbourhoods.

“Please do everything you can in the fight against this disease – actions like handwashing, social distancing and wearing a mask are essential.

“Let’s continue to unite against Covid-19 so 2021 is a better year for everyone.