A NEW Covid-19 community award scheme is to be set up by Cotswold District Council.

The new community award scheme, proposed by the Conservative group at the council's annual meeting, is intended to recognise individual residents who have contributed to their community during the coronavirus crisis.

The proposal was suggested by Cllr Sue Jepson (Blockley) and seconded by Cllr Tony Berry (Kemble) and quickly gathered cross party support.

Council officers will now put together a proposal for the award scheme and its criteria which will be debated by councillors at their next meeting.

Cllr Richard Morgan, Leader of the opposition Conservative Group, said: “During the coronavirus outbreak we have seen a wave of community spirit which I have not witnessed before in my lifetime.

"Our residents have helped their neighbours and their communities in all sorts of ways and we should all take a collective pride in how we responded.

“However certain individuals have gone further still and shown great leadership during the crisis. I am absolutely delighted that this proposal gained cross-party support and will hopefully be implemented over the next few months.”