Play for the ‘home’ side this Six Nations

THE Welsh Ambulance Service is urging rugby fans to stay on-side with Coronavirus guidelines during this year’s Six Nations tournament.

Beginning on Saturday, but kicking off for Wales at 3pm on Sunday with a home tie against Ireland, the popular annual event is being played behind closed doors as the country remains in Alert level 4.

The Six Nations is Europe’s premier rugby event and a Wales match in Cardiff would usually see almost 75,000 people pack into the Principality Stadium with pubs and clubs packed to the rafters with fans.

Abiding by Welsh Government guidelines and resisting the temptation to mix with friends outside of your support bubble is crucial, says the Trust’s Director of Operations Lee Brooks.

He said: “With new strains of the virus putting extra pressure on the entire healthcare system, and with the roll-out of vaccines gathering pace, now is a critical point on our way out of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Reducing the spread of the virus by minimising contact is key, and enjoying the games safely at home is the best way you can show your support for Wales.”

Regional Utilisation Manager Gill Pleming added: “Traditionally the Six Nations can be a busy time for us, especially around city and town centres as people enjoy the atmosphere and bars.

“Although this is not the case this year due to the Welsh Government restrictions in place, we would appeal to people to stay home and only drink alcohol in moderation to help avoid any unnecessary accidents and injuries.

“Should you find yourself requiring non-urgent medical advice, then the online https://111.wales.nhs.uk/ service is available 24/7 as is the NHS Wales 111 phone service.

“But, in the case of a genuine life-threatening injury or illness we are still here for you on 999.”
You can show the country you’re doing your bit and staying safe by posting your stay-at-home rugby pictures on social media using the hashtag #KeepingWalesSafe set up by South Wales Police.