Northamptonshire going into Tier Four is "difficult but absolutely essential," admits health chief

Northamptonshire's health chief says toughening coronavirus restrictions in the county was "absolutely essential."

Wednesday's announcement put the county's 745,000 residents under 'Stay at Home' Tier Four rules from today, shutting non-essential shops, personal services such as hairdressers and gyms.

Mixing of households is banned at home — even in gardens — and you can only meet up with one other person in public places.

Northamptonshire has seen more than 1,100 positive Covid-19 tests in the last two days following discovery of a faster-spreading strain of the virus.

Increases in numbers of positive tests take about two weeks to translate into increases in hospital admissions — yet NHS chiefs say there are already no spare beds.

Director of Public Health, Lucy Wightman, admitted: “I know that this is exceptionally difficult news for Northamptonshire’s residents.

"It will mean many plans are disrupted and businesses affected. This will be a very significant blow, especially to those in the hospitality sector.

“I can only reassure you that, given the data and the current pressure on our NHS services, the Government’s action is absolutely essential.

"We are now in a situation of exponential growth which, if left unchecked, will lead to a rapid escalation in cases and hospitalisations that could overwhelm our NHS services into the New Year.

“Positive case rates are on an upward trend, hospital services are already at capacity and need to be protected further. The virus is spreading fast so together we must continue together to continue the fight.

“Residents have shown remarkable resilience in combating this virus to date but we are now faced with a new challenge.

"The virus has mutated to be up to 70 per cent more contagious meaning continued adherence to the guidelines, however restrictive, at this time is absolutely vital.”

Front line staff at Northampton General and Kettering General hospitals are currently treating 270 coronavirus patients — occupying more than a quarter of bed space.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock responded to the crisis by adding more than 20 areas to those already under stricter Tier Four restrictions.

Corby MP Tom Pursglove admitted the move was "frustrating" and added "Let's all do our bit to help."

South Northants MP Andrea Leadsom said: "I’m so sorry and sad that this is the case. Our Northants Resilience Forum, Public Health teams and local councils have tried so hard to avoid this result.

"But I’m sorry to say the virus is spreading too fast so this decision has become inevitable. Roll on the vaccine!"