This year marks a really important milestone in our country?s history ? the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe. Even with the current lockdown restrictions, we can still mark this event as a city in a really meaningful way. We have created a dedicated web page where you can download flags, bunting and posters, plus information on how to get involved and educational material to look at with children. We?ve taken inspiration from the Royal British Legion?s programme of activities so we can celebrate the day across the city and as a nation.

Find out more about how VE Day will be marked in Nottingham here: https://www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/ve-day-75 where you will also find Home Front resources so you and your family can join in with the celebration

Since the launch of the Government?s Business Support Grants, we have been aware that many small businesses, especially those in multiple occupancy premises, online businesses and charities, have been unable to find the support they need. I?m very pleased to see that following our lobbying, the Government has now announced a new discretionary fund which has been set up to accommodate certain small businesses previously outside the scope of the Business Support Grants scheme.

Whilst we wait for full guidance from the Government we have already started working on a process to identify eligible businesses and ensure they are paid as efficiently as possible.

Find out more about the Business Grant Discretionary Grant Scheme

Once again I really do thank Nottingham people for staying in this weekend and for all that you have done over the past weeks to adhere to social distancing. It?s not easy and many people will be making considerable sacrifices but it is working. The Government has stated that the UK wide lockdown will only be lifted when these five tests are met:

1. Making sure the NHS can cope
2. A 'sustained and consistent' fall in the daily death rate
3. Rate of infection ? the R value - decreasing to 'manageable levels'
4. Ensuring supply of tests and PPE can meet future demand
5. Being confident any adjustments would not risk a second peak.

If we stop now then we will be extending the time that these tests will be met by and we will risk increasing the spread of coronavirus in our city. Please continue to follow the Government guidelines:

• Stay at home
• Only go outside for food, health reasons or work (but only if you cannot work from home)
• If you go out, stay two metres (six feet) away from other people at all times
• Wash your hands as soon as you get home
• Do not meet others, even friends or family. You can spread the virus even if you don?t have symptoms.

Find out more about what you can do to keep yourself and your community safe - Coronavirus outbreak FAQs: what you can and can't do