It could be that they are using other measures. At Royal Ascot yesterday we had to sign up to an ‘experiment’.First you had to register and ‘consent’ to taking part in a COVID test and trace programme. Quite a lot of form filling and computer programme glitches which could drive anyone to drink.Then you are contacted by Ascot to buy your tickets. You needed to complete the form which needed all your personal details and contact eg mobile and email. You then contact NHS through 119 to order lateral flow tests. The programme would send out the home packs of PCR - 2 per person marked with a specific code to each individual.Lots of reminders and when you had jumped those hurdles you were sent an entry ticket to your email which had to be printed out. Without, you would be denied entry.Nearly there. Within 36 hours of the day, you do the lateral flow test, wait 30 minutes and then report the result to test and trace NHS. They will then send confirmation of the test to your mobile which has to be produced with your e-ticket on entry.Finally you then do the PCR test 24 hours before and take the sample to a priority letter box. This to be repeated in 5 days time.Ready to go armed with badges, car parking ticket, e-ticket, mobile phone to show confirmation of lateral flow, some ID and the PCR code for your test. Nowhere were we asked if we had been vaccinated.In the event once you get to the course entry point only the e-ticket was recorded and the mobile proof shown. The odd thing was being asked to put on a mask while queuing to enter and then removed it on the other side. Whilst guests were not required to wear masks, all the staff were.So there you are. For these events they are not being casual just trying different ways to achieve an effective end to the COVID restrictions. I do hope everyone complied honestly and that we will not get the message that we have to isolate.
Elizabeth Ross ● 1958d