HELDERBERG – The monthly appreciation parade or lockdown convoy – comprising essential service first responders, security services, police and emergency services blasting sirens and honking, and crowds of families waving and shining torches – will be held in Somerset West tomorrow (Friday) and Strand and Gordon’s Bay on Saturday.
One of the organisers, Wayne Heylen of Vetus Schola, said the decision to conduct the parade monthly was a collective one, in light of the easing of lockdown restrictions as more businesses reopen.
“There were also several other factors taken into account, including some of the negative feedback on social media, which can be very disheartening,” he said.
“In general, though, there’s a vast majority of people who support the parade, so we’ll continue to host one on the last weekend of every month.”
Heylen added that the support from participants was overwhelming and the rescheduled monthly parade may well be held in the months to come, even when lower lockdown levels are implemented.
“Our number one focus has been combatting crime and all sector vehicles do not form part of the parade, but just the roaming vehicles and guys who are off duty,” he explained.”
“We’ve seen a lot of positives come out of it so we’ll continue as we have that mutual support.”
The convoy usually comprises 30 to 40 vehicles stretching over 1 km, and includes members of Vetus Schola, police, GBSec, GBMed, GBSec Special Ops, HCW, Tracker, Traffic, ER24, FADT, AM and Secure Rite all participating. – Yaseen Gaffar
