BASILDON radio station, Gateway 97.8, is today (Tuesday, 9 March) marking one year of the daily Coronavirus Update on air.

The live feature, which is still on air every weekday evening, reacts to government briefings, announces the latest local figures and communicates changes to restrictions.

When the Coronavirus Update was launched in March 2020, the team at Gateway 97.8 had no idea just how important the update would become to members of Basildon and Thurrock's communities.

Gateway 97.8 Editor Johnny Jenkins said "It's bitter-sweet to be marking one year of the Coronavirus Update. Announcing cases and deaths in our community remains difficult, but a vital part of our broadcasting schedule.

"The impact of the pandemic on communities across Basildon and Thurrock will be felt for the years to come, with almost 900 deaths recorded across the two boroughs.

"Gateway 97.8 is here for the community - it is what we do. We will continue doing it for as long as is necessary!"

The Coronavirus Update is on air every weekday evening at 5:30pm with Johnny Jenkins, and will remain on air every day for the foreseeable future. You can catch up on the latest figures and hear the most recent update here. .

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