'Think twice before you flout lockdown rules': says Kirklees councillor

Aafaq Butt, a Labour member on Kirklees Council, thanked those offering support during what he called a “testing time”.

Coun Butt had a stark but heartfelt message for anyone tempted to carry on as normal in defiance of lockdown restrictions.

Posting in the Heckmondwike Matters Group on Facebook Coun Butt, said: “If people think it’s fine to flout the rules and ignore Government advice, then maybe if you could see the helplessness, the fear, worry and the feelings of potentially losing loved ones then maybe you will think twice.

“Please don’t put yourselves and your loved ones at risk.

“Your going out with friends, or visiting relatives may end up with someone in intensive care fighting for every breath with no treatment available.”

He added that he would be stepping away from ward duties as his family “tries to get through this together”.

“I’m sorry I can’t reply to messages at the moment but I really appreciate everyone’s thoughts as my family goes through this testing time,” said Coun Butt.