By Colin Beattie, Musselburgh MSP

YESTERDAY, May 8, marked the 75th anniversary of VE (Victory in Europe) Day, remembering the surrender of the Nazis and the end of the Second World War.

I hope you joined me in paying tribute to surviving veterans and in commemorating those lost during the conflict.

I am very grateful for the enduring peace achieved across Europe since 1945.

Although we might not have been able to take part in our usual commemorations, there was an online service led by Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland, which included a message from children and families currently learning at home and a video message of thanks from the First Minister.

I am glad that measures were taken to honour this important anniversary, and to remember those who lost their lives.

There has been a large reduction in the number of stroke patients, with A&Es and stroke wards significantly quieter since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic.

We must not forget that a stroke is a medical emergency and, if you see someone displaying stroke symptoms, it is still important to immediately dial 999.

This is not the only medical emergency that you should seek support on – if you have any urgent symptoms that are not coronavirus related, you should still seek assistance from a GP or hospital.

The NHS is still here for us and will continue to support those who need it.

The Scottish Government has recommended that if you are in an enclosed public space, such as a supermarket, then you should consider using something to cover your face.

As well as this, you must also maintain a two-metre distance from those outside your household.

It is important to note that covering your face does not necessarily mean that you need a medical grade face mask – something such as a scarf would also suffice.

As we continue working together to overcome the Covid-19 pandemic, it is important that we continue to take social distancing measures seriously and I would recommend keeping up to date with the Scottish Government and NHS advice.