The recent slight easing of the lockdown restrictions has been cautiously welcomed (not by everyone) as a small light towards the end of a very long tunnel.

There is still a suggestion that people aged over 70 should remain in self isolation. Of course, national regulations cannot take into account every individual person’s situation, some generalisations must be made and vulnerable people particularly need to be protected from the virus. However, not all over-70s are feeble and sedentary, not all older people consider that they are especially vulnerable. Many normally enjoy swimming, tennis, golf, even running marathons. Restrict them to their homes simply because of their age, and the benefits of their fitness will soon go.

The recent weeks in lockdown have left many, particularly those who live alone, feeling bored, anxious, lonely and depressed. In addition, young families often rely on grandparents to look after small children, allowing parents to go to work. Recently we have been singing the old songs, including ‘We’ll meet again’ and ‘You’ll never walk alone’ - perhaps just a little bit ironic in the present circumstances.

Pamela Brown,

Dringhouses, York

My take on the UK’s coronavirus figures

I must correct Helen Hills’ letter of May 13.

1. As of May 11 the UK did not have the highest death toll by a long way. Measured as deaths per head of population Belgium had the highest at 730 per million. At 433 per million, the UK was below Italy (483) and Spain (540).

2. We have the second highest population in Europe, with 66 million against 83million in Germany. However our density is 17 per cent higher than Germany, 36 per cent higher than Italy, 230 per cent higher than France and nearly 300 per cent higher than Spain. Density is a huge factor in aiding transmission of any disease. This is a fact of geography.

3. London is the largest city with nine million against 3.7 million in Berlin. It is also the most globally connected.

4. Before the crisis we had the lowest critical care beds per head of population, but at no stage has the NHS been overwhelmed, as occurred at times in Italy, Spain, France and New York.

All in all the government has controlled the situation and have been guided by facts and science not media headlines.

W. Maddocks,

Osbaldwick,York