Sheffield people divided on whether or not Christmas bubble plans should be rethought

Michael Gove also met with the four nations yesterday evening to review this temporary easing of the restrictions, and we are still waiting to here the outcome of that meeting.

We asked Sheffield Star readers if they thought the plan for Christmas bubbles should be rethought or cancelled, and this is what they said.

Emma Li said she would still be seeing her family, no matter what happens.

“After buying all the presents, ordering and buying all the food and prepping my house, I dare them to rethink it. No matter what they say I ain't rethinking it.”

Nikita Annice Harston, however, felt differently and said she could not understand why the festive bubbles had been introduced in the first place.

“It defeats the whole purpose doesn’t it? ‘Stay away from your loved ones for most of the year but here have these 5 days together’. Does covid get a Christmas break too???”

Bev Pepperdine said other aspects of the rules needed to be rethought first.

She said: “Not before thousands going to football matches, theatres and shopping centres are stopped.”

Philip Jowett said people needed to take responsibility for their own actions.

He said: “Whatever rules are made, they can't possibly police it. It will still be up to people to be sensible but, I'm afraid, some won't be.”

Christine Walker said the government could not take back what they have promised now as it would cause misery for families.

She said: “Too late. I've promised my daughter and her three young boys, who lost their dad in January, that I'll spend Christmas Day with them and I'm not going to disappoint them now.”

Hilary Osborn agreed with Christine.

She said: “I lost my husband in June and will be seeing all my grandchildren and two daughters, who I am bubbled with and do wrap around childcare for. We are all hurting so badly and grieving. A change to our plans would do untold damage to our mental health.”

Christine Guest, however, thought that people should spend the festive period with those they live with.

She said: “Just stop with your own household. We usually go out but this year we are having Christmas at home in our bubble of three.”

Sarah Skinner said she thought it was time for tougher action.

She said: “I think we should be back in lockdown to keep our families safe.”

Lee Metterick said people should make their own choices and be sensible.

“The bubbles aren’t forced on you. If you want to have them then do it. People just need to use some common sense.”

Irene Cottam said she feared what would happen in the new year if the plan for Christmas bubbles goes ahead as planned.

She said: “(The government) should cancel Xmas or it will be same in January, full lockdown.”

Jeana Wragg, however, said people should do what is best for them and their individual circumstances.

She said: “I think people should stop judging. Do what suits you and leave the rest to do what suits them.”