DAVE THOMPSON

Dave Thompson, 75

When did you first begin to realise that coronavirus was something out of the ordinary?

As a racing fan, I was beginning to see that the big Cheltenham meeting (March 10-13) was in doubt and although it did go ahead it was clear then there were growing global concerns which went far beyond sport.

When and how did it first impact you in a significant way?

Straight after lockdown. No family meet-ups, get togethers with pals, London theatre, cinema, no pubs, no racing, football or any sport;

What were the biggest problems with coping with lockdown and how did you manage?

Having to cancel annual trip to Dubai to see our daughter was a blow. Just the frustration, epitomised by London-bound trains travelling to town every half-hour empty. Weird.

Were there times you despaired?

Not personally but aware that globally so many lives were being lost and so many families and individuals were suddenly under massive pressure. 

What keeps you / kept you going?

Texts and zoom with family and friends, garden looking lovely in the sunshine, walking with Jean, TV and glass or two of wine in the evening.

What was your lowest moment?

Realising that recovery from February flooding was going to take much longer as contractors would be unable to start coming into homes for some time.

What was your best / funniest moment?

Probably when the downstairs loo was restored -- after 18 weeks

Do you think the government is handling / handled the crisis satisfactorily?

5/10. I don't think any UK government has ever faced such a crisis. Should probably have locked down earlier (including Cheltenham !)

Were you also affected by flooding on the night of February 9 and how have you coped with both problems?

Badly hit by flooding and it'll likely be five months or more to be fully restored. Big blow but there's always someone worse off than yourself e,g. the 10 million-plus Corona sufferers/victims, refugees, vulnerable children, those with terminal conditions, homeless etc etc