Let's enjoy Gower

As restrictions in Wales ease, it is important to keep some things in mind, so that we can all enjoy what the Gower constituency has to offer, whilst keeping ourselves and others safe.

There are so many wonderful and diverse places in the Gower constituency. From the beaches of the Gower peninsula, to the RSPB Cwm Clydach reserve, there is so much to see and I am glad that we can now enjoy these spaces. 

As we start to return to some form of normality, it's important to remember to be respectful of our surroundings. Like many of you, I was shocked to see pictures on social media of the rubbish left behind in some beauty spots. Whilst some more bins would be helpful, there are so many people who aren't even attempting to take their rubbish and just leave it where they were. Last week, I met an 8 year old school pupil called Sonnie, who had been doing daily litter picks on the stretch of Swansea Bay near West Cross. I'm always thrilled to see younger generations showing care and understanding of the environment, but it shouldn't be down to an 8 year old to clear other people's mess. 

If you are going out to enjoy our outdoor spaces, please be considerate and put your rubbish in the nearest bin. If the bins are full, please take your rubbish home and dispose of it there. 

If you are walking your dog(s), please pick up their poo. This is particularly important if you are walking on agricultural land, as dog poo can be harmful to farm animals. 

There is some other guidance to follow if you are walking on agricultural land:

• Check you are legally allowed to be on the land
• Keep to footpaths if possible.
• Remember to leave gates and property as you found them
• Try to avoid walking through fields with animals.
• If you have to walk through a field with animals and you are with a dog, keep dogs on a lead, regardless of your dog's temperament. Sheep worrying is illegal and even small dogs can kill farm animals.

It's worth remembering that, even though we may visit for a day, there are communities who live in these spaces. Please be respectful of their homes and businesses. 

With rates of Covid-19 cases going down, and the vaccination programme going so well in Wales, it can be easy to forget that the virus is still out there. Please remember:

• Stay at home and get a test if you are unwell and have any symptoms
• Wash your hands regularly
• Keep socially distant
• Wear a mask when required, unless you are exempt

Unfortunately, there have been some instances of anti-social behaviour in our communities. We all have a responsibility to make sensible choices when we are out and about and not put ourselves and others at unnecessary risk. I know that the Police are regularly patrolling some hotspots, but if you witness anti-social behaviour, please report it on the non emergency Police line, 101. You can also report incidents online here. Please also remember that there are still some Covid restrictions in place.

If we all do our bit, then everyone can enjoy Gower. 

Helpful links

• Visit Swansea Bay
• Latest Coronavirus guidance from the Welsh Government
• Book a Covid test
• Latest Coronavirus news from Swansea Council
• Keep Wales Tidy