Council leader backs Kettering residents to listen and prevent a lockdown

The leader of Kettering Council has put his faith in the residents of the borough to listen to Covid advice and stop a local lockdown.

Conservative Russell Roberts spoke after Kettering was added to the Government's 'areas of concern' watchlist on Friday along with neighbouring Corby.

Since then the county's director of public health has said the rate of cases in the two towns is on a downwards trend but urged people to take Covid-19 seriously.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday (September 4) Cllr Roberts, who is also leader of the North Northamptonshire Shadow Executive, said the people of Kettering have been doing just that.

Asked if people are listening to the Covid message he said: "I think they are and I think they have proved that because an awful lot of them have come along to get themselves tested.

"That proves to me that they are listening and I think we are now getting the message out as to making sure you do the right thing, keep yourself safe...if we can get that message out there clearly they will listen."

At the press conference Corby Council's leader Cllr Tom Beattie said a local lockdown would be damaging.

Kettering is not at the intervention stage but its cases are being closely monitored by the Government, who could step in like they did with Leicester if rates rise further.

Cllr Roberts said: "Nobody wants a lockdown and as Tom Beattie said this is our chance to stop that happening.

"I think the people of Kettering, when we have given them a clear message, will listen and will act."

As of yesterday the borough had 721 positive results and in recent days Tresham College in Kettering and Rothwell's Montsaye Academy have confirmed they have been affected.

On September 4 Kettering's seven-day average was 3.6 cases per day - down from 5.4 on August 25.

Cllr Roberts added: "If we all pull together we can beat this and get this turned round quickly."

People in Kettering, as well as Corby, Northampton and Wellingborough, have been told to:

- Keep 2 metres from others at all times

- Limit contact with anyone outside of your household or bubble

- If you must meet those outside of your household or bubble, meet in an outdoor space

- Do not share items with others outside of your household or bubble

- If social distancing at 2 metres is not possible, always use a face covering

- Avoid using public transport or car sharing - wear face coverings if you must travel with others

- Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly for 20 seconds each time

- Work from home if you can

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