Coronavirus live updates: May 27 2020

Nicola Sturgeon has set out further detail of the Scottish government’s new test and protect strategy, which will go live across the country on Thursday.

She said the required capacity of more than 15,000 tests a day was now in place and if people develop coronavirus symptoms they must book a test immediately and isolate themselves.

Closer to home, Southmead Hospital Charity has launched an £815,000 appeal to fund coronavirus research. Money raised for the new appeal will fund research into coronavirus drug treatments, a deeper understanding of how the virus spreads and its long-term impact on the health of people who recover.

Scroll down for the latest updates:

5.40pm
That’s the end of today’s live blog. Thank you for reading and see you again tomorrow.

4.54pm
Here’s a rundown of some of today’s latest updates:

• Weston General Hospital remains closed to new patients due to a high number of coronavirus cases.
• Gaol Ferry footbridge is to be closed for two days while new social distancing measures, including a one-way system, are installed.
• Bristol residents are being asked for feedback about how they use and experience their parks and green spaces, and how this might have changed in light of Covid-19.
• The words of the City Poet are brought to life in a new film released to mark the Covid-19 pandemic as Bristol begins its journey to recovery.

3.32pm
The words of the City Poet are brought to life in a new film released to mark the Covid-19 pandemic as Bristol begins its journey to recovery.

Marvin Rees commissioned Vanessa Kisuule to capture the feelings and spirit of the city during this time.

The mayor said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has not only created physical barriers between us, it has brought forward feelings of fear, uncertainty and isolation. This film acts as a reminder of the rich and varied communities and cultures that make Bristol so special, as we all stand together in the face of crisis. It is that spirit that gives us hope for the future.

“The next stage of the city’s recovery is crucial but also daunting for many people. We need to rebuild businesses, confidence, and all change how we live to keep ourselves, our families and our communities safe. It is more important than ever that we act with respect and tolerance, and don’t forget the kindness and resilience we have shown in the past few months.”

City of Hope was made by Bristol-based independent video production company JonesMillbank. It is part of Bristol City Council’s #WeAreBristol campaign.

2.55pm
The owner of Warleigh Weir has said ‘it is with a heavy heart’ that he has announced the closure of the popular beauty spot.

The riverside area near Bath will remain out of bounds to the public “for the foreseeable future” following a series of incidents, including littering and people “defecating in the bushes”.

There have also been issues with too many cars and visitors not respecting social distancing guidelines.

Owner Johnny Palmer says when the site is re-opened, he “hopes to see a major shift in attitude and behaviour, as well as other site users engaging with those who behave poorly”.

https://www.facebook.com/warleighweir/videos/vb.222916911702286/2407026116067714/?type=2&theater

1.26pm
There may be no Glastonbury Festival this year but the BBC is putting on the next best thing.

On what would have been the 50th anniversary of the world-famous festival, the broadcaster will be hosting three special shows, highlighting the impact it has had on the county, across eight radio stations.

12.13pm
Bristol residents are being asked for feedback about how they use and experience their parks and green spaces, and how this might have changed in light of Covid-19.

Data is being gathered by The Natural History Consortium and anonymous survey results will be shared with Future Parks partners, Bristol City Council, Bath & North East Somerset Council, and Bristol and Bath Parks Foundation.

The survey will take about ten minutes to complete. Find more information and take part via www.bnhc.onlinesurveys.ac.uk/bristol-and-bath-parks-survey20.

https://twitter.com/CllrAsherCraig/status/1265600434913382400

11.45am
Gaol Ferry footbridge is to be closed for two days while new social distancing measures, including a one-way system, are installed.

The busy crossing that links Cumberland Road by Wapping Wharf to Coronation Road will be out of action between Thursday, May 28 and Saturday, May 30 while work takes place.

It is among the first of a raft of planned improvements to walking and cycling infrastructure across the city set to help build a “more inclusive, sustainable” future and aid social distancing.

Read the full story here.

10.36am
The founders of Blak Wave are among 25 artists to be commissioned by BBC Arts and the Arts Council to respond to these unprecedented times through creative projects.

Mena Fombo and Michael Jenkins launched Bristol’s first black-owned television production company in October 2019.

They are now on the lookout for self-identifying women and girls of African or Caribbean heritage – of all ages, shapes and sizes – to take part in a short, documentary-style film.

Email enquiries and images to [email protected].

9.30am
Weston General Hospital remains closed to new patients due to a high number of coronavirus cases.

Bosses say actions are “continuing to be taken” at the facility with the aim of re-opening the A&E department and accepting new patients as soon as possible.

The hospital stopped accepting new patients from 8am yesterday and people with appointments are asked not to attend. Those affected are being contacted to arrange a new date.

University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust says the situation is under constant review and any updates will be shared via Twitter.

8.45am
Good morning and welcome to today’s live blog. These are some of the latest developments:

• Boris Johnson said shops will be able to open if they meet safety guidelines, with outdoor markets and car showrooms allowed to reopen from June 1.
• All shops in England can open from June 15 provided social distancing and hygiene measures are observed.
• Southmead Hospital Charity has launched an £815,000 appeal to fund coronavirus research.

Main photo: Martin Booth

Read more: Appeal launched to fund vital coronavirus research in Bristol