EVERY student at Middlewich High School now has a supply of face masks paid for by the town council.

Schools have had to make changes to the way they run in the Covid-19 pandemic, purchasing PPE as they face their own budget cuts, while job losses have also hit families hard.

As a result, Middlewich Town Council's external committee decided to cover the costs of a mask for every child at the town's high school.

The masks were delivered to the school this week by Nicola Antoney, deputy town clerk.

Headteacher Heidi Thurland said: "Huge thanks to Middlewich Town Council who have provided us with a supply of masks.

"Thank you for helping us keep students safe. Great to see local partnerships strengthening our work as a school."

Cllr Chris Jones, chairman of the external committee, said: "I am pleased that we were able to help the high school with this, Covid has had a serious impact on school budgets which is why I also asked council to release the swimming lesson grants for alternative use."

Meanwhile, Middlewich Town Council is gearing up for a public meeting to discuss next year's budget plans by asking residents to have their say.

In an effort to avoid raising the precept, councillors are considering a number of measures including cutting events such as Folk and Boat, holding off producing a neighbourhood plan and delaying non-essential building repairs.

To have your say, email admin@middlewich.org.uk by 10am on Monday, November 23.

For more information see middlewich.org.uk