As the first weekend beckons in stage two of lifting of restrictions, many of us will be looking forward to being able to do a little more than we?ve become used to ? a long-awaited trip to the shops or a beer garden perhaps. This is hugely welcome and I thank everyone who has already done so safely and responsibly.

As case rates reduce, we can go forward confidently, but cautiously. We are working alongside businesses to make sure they have the appropriate measures in place to be Covid secure. We also need people to continue to maintain social distancing, wear face coverings and observe hand hygiene, and meet up to six people or within two households outdoors only.

Vaccinations are a crucial part of our armoury against Covid, and with those aged 45 and over now being offered appointments we have reached age groups who perhaps don?t see themselves as vulnerable ? but it?s vital they take up the offer not just for themselves but those around them.

However, it?s important to remember that while vaccine take-up has been really positive and is highly effective, on its own it doesn?t guarantee against a resurgence. That?s why getting into the routine of taking twice-weekly tests ? especially as restrictions ease and schools return ? is really important. They are free and easy to get hold of ? find out how here.

Latest figures show that across the whole council, women on average earn just over 97p for every pound earned by a male colleague ? a mean average pay gap of 2.9%. This is an improvement on last year when the gap stood at 3.3%. Meanwhile for middle earners, men and women continue to be paid the same. Whilst this is an improvement, we still have more to do, but our approach helps to encourage women to work for us and to stay and grow professionally at the council.

The council?s Cabinet is also made up predominantly of female executive councillors for the first time, while over half of all Nottingham City councillors are women.

If you started a business during lockdown or are thinking of going self-employed, Business & IP Centre Nottingham have a packed programme of online events featuring expert webinars and workshops plus stories from people who have successfully made the move to running a business, taking place on Wednesday 28^th April.

Participants will hear about pitching their business, finance, online tools for starting and growing a business, changes to consumer attitudes due to Covid, along with top tips from a range of business founders on their experience of starting and running a business. You can register here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/start-up-day-reloaded-tickets-149686372971

Prince Philip's funeral will take place at Windsor Castle at 3pm on Saturday. This will be marked by a minute?s silence and I?m sure like me, many people will wish to pause for reflection. Anyone wish to leave a message on the Book of Condolence can do so here.