Coronavirus diary, Friday 29 May

A lovely summer day, with the weather set fair for the week-end. Perfect for a drive to the beach or the country, a trek up Snowdon perhaps. Not possible, though, in Wales. Unlike England, the Welsh government is being ultra cautious in easing the restrictions we have had to put up with for ten weeks. 

Cautious: Mark Drakeford

One of the concessions made by First Minister Mark Drakeford today is to allow meetings between family and friends but only up to six people. A welcome chance to see parents or grandparents, perhaps, but it must be in the open air and two metres apart. 

But not yet...

Lucky England will make the most of the sunshine by crowding the roads and beaches. Although Wales is out of bounds, the Welcome to Wales signs won't be covered - but the Welsh police forces will turn back any holiday invaders. 
And this is the only the second summer since tolls at the Severn bridges were abolished. 

Inevitably, the official government advice is, well, officious. If you ask, can I go for a walk? the answer, 'Going for a walk and also shopping, to have something to eat and, for example, to sit in he park, is intended to be permitted'. When  will they make up their mind if it is permitted? 

Summer 2020 will be remembered as the dullest ever, even if the sun shines non stop. No Ceredigion National Eisteddfod, and the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod postponed to next year, like many other major shows and sporting events. In England, Premier League football is due to restart in mid June, behind closed doors with piped applause.

But it is all in a good cause - to save lives. Wales has been more stoical than England in accepting the harsh restrictions, and more patient. We are heartened and relieved that coronavirus death numbers are falling,