Gwynedd Council is urging residents to play their part to ensure 2021 is a better year for everyone.

Following the Welsh Government’s decision to introduce tighter Alert Level 4 restrictions, it is more important than ever that residents in all parts of Gwynedd do whatever they can to help stop the spread of Covid-19.

By cutting down on contact with others, opening windows, wearing a face covering where required, keeping a safe social distance and washing your hands, you will help to cut down on the rate of transmission.

Cllr Dyfrig Siencyn said: “I’m grateful to the people of Gwynedd for their efforts in keeping our communities safe over the past 10 months. It has been a year like no other, but as 2020 draws to a close, it remains important that we continue to follow the small but vital steps to keep ourselves and our loved one safe.

"Cases of coronavirus are rising again in Wales and the situation is stark. Whilst the latest figures for Gwynedd are lower than other areas of the country, they remain a cause for concern and we are very aware that cases could rise very quickly.

"We must do all we can to protect our care and health services from being overwhelmed. By doing this we will undoubtedly save lives.

"There is hope on the horizon as the vaccine begins to be administered. But for now, I urge Gwynedd residents to keep to the rules and to have a safe but small New Year as we look forward to a better 2021.”

Dilwyn Williams, Gwynedd Council chief executive added: “This year has been a difficult one for everyone, and I want to thank the people of Gwynedd for sticking to the Covid-19 rules.

“I’d also like to pay tribute to the efforts of the council staff for their hard work and dedication throughout this year.

“To help support our care and health staff, it is more important than ever that every one of us plays out part to stop the spread.

“We can do this by keeping our contacts as low as possible and avoid mixing with people from other households.

"By making these decisions to protect ourselves and our loved ones we will help to tackle this virus and get back to normality as quickly as possible.”