A TOWN councillor has offered practical support for EU citizens applying to the Settlement Scheme.

In a move to reinforce Hexham’s reputation as an open, diverse, welcoming place to live, work and play, Coun. Lee Williscroft-Ferris is offering to meet with any EU citizens who may be at risk of missing the June 30 deadline to apply to the scheme and to offer any support they may require.

Any EU citizen resident in the UK by December 31 2020 is eligible to apply for ‘settled status’, protecting their right to live, work and access essential services for themselves and their family members. Fears have been expressed that thousands of EU citizens nationwide may be at risk of missing the deadline.

Coun. Williscroft-Ferris said: “Fellow Europeans make an invaluable contribution to our town. My offer of support with applying to the EU Settlement Scheme should be seen as a statement of support and gratitude. To be clear, they will always be welcome in Hexham.”