IT HAS been a year since the first case of Covid-19 was recorded in Hampshire.

Figures on Tuesday showed there have been 5,917 cases in the New Forest since March 2020.

New Forest District Council leader, Councillor Barry Rickman, said: “My sincere thoughts go out to anyone who has lost someone to this terrible disease or had their lives impacted in any way by its effects.

"This calendar reminder marks 12 months of our community working together like never before to ensure those that need help receive it, and the most vulnerable are looked after. Be that by offering to get shopping, checking in on loved ones, or giving transport help to medical appointments.

“They say people come together in a crisis and whilst this is certainly true, I believe that your strong community spirit was already well established – and this enduring care for each other and the place we all call home has gone a long way in making sure we rise to this unwelcome challenge.

“As we see fresh hope of returning to a normal way of life, with the vaccine rollout, the plan out of lockdown, and the sun starting to shine again, I am optimistic this community spirit is what will ensure our district once again thrives.

“Stay safe, and thank you for all you continue to do to keep the New Forest safe.”

In Hampshire there has been 61,097 confirmed positive cases, 13,611 in Southampton, 13,750 in Portsmouth, while in Dorset there have been 11,267 with 24,687 in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.