The clocks going back at the weekend marked the end of British summer time and the arrival of the onset of autumn and winter.

I believe the coming months will prove challenging – we are continuing to see an increase in Covid-19 cases, both locally and nationally, and I know there will be some people who are starting to get a sense of fatigue at the ongoing Government restrictions.

Also, there are a number of events coming up, such as Halloween and Bonfire Night, that will potentially provide policing challenges for us.

I know it is easy to wish that life would return to normal, but set against the continuing risks from COVID to our communities, I cannot stress enough how important it is that we all remain cautious and vigilant. Now is not the time for us to be complacent.

As you would expect, we have been planning for the coming weekend and working closely with partners, including the licensing teams at the two local authorities, to ensure we have everything in place to help people mark Halloween in a safe and Covid-secure way.

We will also be making sure there are extra police officers out on patrol this weekend, as always focusing on engaging with our communities and reminding people about the importance of following the rules, but also carrying out enforcement action when necessary.

We are not telling people they can’t celebrate Halloween, but we are urging you to think carefully and, if needed, adjust your plans, so that you are keeping yourself and everyone around you safe.

You can read more about our suggestions for a safe Halloween on our website but the main thing is to make sure you are continuing to adhere to the Government restrictions at all times.

These include wearing face coverings when needed, remembering the importance of 2m social distancing, not gathering in groups of more than six and making sure you self-isolate if you have symptoms, test positive or have been in contact with someone who has Covid-19.

We must all continue to stay alert, to control the virus and ultimately save lives. I know that so far Wiltshire and Swindon have experienced lower levels of the virus compared to other parts of the country, but there is no doubt that cases are continuing to rise and that poses a risk to everyone, particularly the most vulnerable in society.

Therefore, I urge you all – if you are planning on marking Halloween this weekend, please make sure you stay safe and do everything you can to keep others safe too.