JOHN NIMMO

Name: John Nimmo

Age, over 60

When did you first begin to realise coronavirus was something out of the ordinary ?

In January 2020, looking at the situation in the Far East.

When did it first impact you in a significant way ?

In early March 2020.

In what way ?

My wife Margaret and I believe that we contracted the coronavirus at that time. 

How worried did you become and why ?

My concern was that I was at an age where the statistics showed there was a greater risk of complications resulting from the infection.

Are you still worried and why ?

I am still concerned that adequate precautions were not taken at the earliest opportunity and that easing the lockdown is occurring too early. As a result, a second wave of infection is more likely. The death toll is persisting at a high level.

What were the biggest problems coping with lockdown ?

The inability to meet close family, some of whom were already ill.

How did you manage ?

Using modern communications such as Zoom video conferencing or simple regular phone calls.

Were there times when you despaired ?

No, but there were times I was frustrated with the government's approach, attitude and slow lockdown.

What kept you (keeps you) going ?

Keeping in touch as closely as possible with friends and family. Also, I started a music project writing and recording songs with old music friends around the country and even across the world.

What was your lowest moment ?

When we were both ill and self-isolating and we realised that we were not able to buy food easily because we were not regular customers of any food delivery company. Social distancing meant it was impossible for people to visit, and we had to ask friends and neighbours for help with food deliveries. 

Also, when Dominic Cummings clearly broke the lockdown rules and took himself and his family off to his parents' house. The ludicrous excuses given in a bizarre television press conference did not help. My frustration was because many millions had adhered to the rules, while he suffered no loss of job or earnings, whereas many people will. In addition, when I complained to my MP, he failed to give a convincing argument as to why it was acceptable.

What was your best/funniest memory ?

Lots of funny videos were circulating on social media. There is one of a man who is told he will be quarantined due to coronavirus. He is told by the commentator that he has a choice - A) quarantine with his wife and child, or B). The man immediately chooses B), without knowing what the option is.

Do you think the government handled/is handling the crisis satisfactorily ?

Absolutely not -- much inadequate preparation and misinformation which appear to be deliberately misleading. In the future, we surely will conclude that a proper master-plan, ready for enacting, which accommodates a changing pandemic crisis situation, is a prerequisite for any government.

Were you also affected by flooding on the night of February 9 ?

No, but we tried to help others who were affected -- clearing out, mopping, offering moral support as best we could.  As far as I am aware, no satisfactory explanation has been given as to why the flooding actually occurred.