I was saddened to learn that 750 people in our city have now died from Covid-19. I want to take this opportunity to stand with families who have lost loved ones as they grieve at this difficult time.

It is important to look beyond the statistics and remember that each death represents a citizen of Nottingham ? that is somebody?s parent or child, brother or sister, friend or colleague. It?s hard to express the tragedy of this loss of life. However, what is clear is that Covid-19 is still present in our city? and we have to continue take steps to prevent its spread.

The tragic toll was reached this week and is based on deaths caused by the virus in hospitals, care homes and in the community. Many more people in the city remain seriously ill in hospital ? especially younger people and those who remain unvaccinated. The best advice is to continue to follow the guidance on ?hands, face, space?, get vaccinated and have regular testing for Covid-19 even without symptoms.

Let?s do all we can to protect ourselves and others. More information on where to get vaccinated can be found here. Details of how to get a Covid-19 test can be found here.

There was speculation in the national media over the weekend about the future of the Eastern leg of HS2 which, under current proposals, would involve the transformation plans for the Hub Station at Toton and would give us the extra rail capacity we need across the East Midlands.

We?ve been a strong and active supporter of HS2 over many years so it was disappointing to read speculation that the plans for our area may be under threat. If that happens, Nottingham and the surrounding region stand to miss out on substantial financial support for the new and better jobs our people need, and the kind of local public transport networks other regions take for granted. Not to go ahead with the Eastern leg of HS2 would also be a major setback for the ?levelling up? of Government investment to give the East Midlands its fair share.

It?s to be hoped that the speculation is unfounded and the plans for HS2 and the Hub Station at Toton are still firmly on track. I?m therefore urging Government to end the uncertainty and announce their intention to proceed as soon as possible.

The Summer Reading Challenge runs until 11 September. The World Wide Fund for Nature is involved in this year?s programme and they have come up with a nature-themed challenge that will inspire children to stand up for the planet.

Children can take part in the ?Wild World Heroes? Summer Reading Challenge by joining up at any Nottingham City Library and then reading six books of their choice over the summer. There are stinky stickers and awesome rewards to collect and a medal at the end.

It?s totally free to take part and this year children can choose to do the challenge in libraries or online. Find out more www.nottinghamcitylibraries.co.uk/summer-reading-challenge

• Places are available at Free Fun & Food sessions run by Nottingham Forest and other partners. First come, first served, with priority given to children who receive free school meals. Schedule and booking information
• Try the FREE Look Up scavenger hunt around the city centre. One person who tried it said: ?It was really fun! I enjoyed the variety of questions?. Visit Look Up! Summer Adventure Trail ?to download the app and for more info
• The sun is out this week and finally it should feel more like summer! Discover Nottingham's parks
• Find out what is happening in our leisure centres across the city at Active Nottingham - Activities