Capital Cops: Remember the relaxation of Covid restrictions is only temporary- Chief Supt Sean Scott

Chief Superintendent Sean Scott is the Divisional Commander for Edinburgh

Frustratingly, things are different this year, the public health imperative meaning we have to accept a different look and feel to Christmas. That said, although the usual events and spectacles are absent, we will still have an enhanced visible presence across the city and, of course, there is some additional comfort that the season hasn't been completely cancelled.

The Scottish Government's announcement on the relaxation of current restrictions from 23-27 December means we can see limited numbers of family and friends, many of whom we may not have seen for several months.

I really hope you are all able to enjoy this limited, precious time celebrating with loved ones but please remember that this opportunity is a temporary measure and Covid will still be with us when that period ends. After 27 December, I would urge the Edinburgh public to once again resume their fantastic adherence to the law and guidelines so that the city achieves a more normal existence as early as possible in 2021.

If you are travelling over Christmas, please make sure your vehicle is roadworthy and that you are ready to deal with anything that winter in Scotland can bring. It's a great idea to ensure your vehicle is stocked with essential items such as blankets, bottles of water, a spare phone charger and some non-perishable snacks – just in case you are forced to spend more time than expected in it but hopefully not!

We will continue to utilise our social media channels to provide a range of festive safety and crime prevention advice. Please 'like' our Edinburgh Police Division Facebook page, or follow us on Twitter @EdinburghPolice, to receive these updates.

Looking ahead to Hogmanay, I'm acutely aware the cancellation of the Street Party does not mean the cancellation of people’s desire to celebrate.

Again, I implore everyone to continue to follow the Scottish Government guidance and ensure they mark the end of 2020 and beginning of 2021 with members of their own household. There are many open spaces and famous gathering points within our great city but please remember that meeting large numbers of people, even if it’s outside, is not permitted. Our ability to celebrate traditionally will no doubt come once again, but let's continue to do all we can to stay safe just that bit longer.

The roll-out of the Covid vaccine has now commenced and brings with it some much needed optimism for the future and with that in mind, I want to take this opportunity to thank all of Edinburgh’s residents and businesses, not only for the huge sacrifices made during 2020 but for their continued discipline and patience as 2021 approaches. Tackling the spread of this virus has been a collective effort and is the reason we now find ourselves in this position of cautious optimism. On that note, I'm a 'glass half full' type of person and can see a time in the not too distant future when Edinburgh can thrive again.

All of Edinburgh Division's officers and staff wish the Capital’s communities a very merry and safe Christmas and the best New Year possible.

Chief Superintendent Sean Scott is the Divisional Commander for Edinburgh