Pleas to Northamptonshire residents to 'play their part' as Covid restrictions remain unchanged

As the country enters the next phase of tackling coronavirus with a new lockdown system, the message from the local health authority is clear.

Yesterday (October 12), Northamptonshire was confirmed as tier one or ‘medium’ in the new three-tier system, where restrictions are inline with current Government regulations, meaning the rule of six and 10pm hospitality curfew continue.

However, Public Health Northamptonshire is keen to send a strong message to residents about activities that are permitted, but should not necessarily be encouraged.

The plea comes after the latest available infection rate shows a rise to 84.27 new positive tests in the last week per 100,000 of the population, in the week from September 25 to October 1, in comparison to 23.3 in the previous week of September 18-24.

Lucy Wightman, Director of Public Health at Northamptonshire County Council, said: “Locally we have recommendations in place in a bid to address the continued spread of the virus in our community.

“We are asking spectators of sports to stay away, although we are working closely with sports clubs on how we can make them Covid-secure settings where possible.

“With a very heavy heart we are also asking visitors at care homes and hospitals to protect their loved ones and only visit in exceptional circumstances.

“Although many restrictions imposed on us all at the moment some activities remain permitted, however in light of further increases in cases locally I’m pleading with you all - just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.

“Every one of us needs to play our part in stopping the spread of coronavirus.

“Together we can halt the spread if we protect ourselves and each other.”

Ms Wightman also said the three tier scheme should be given time to see if it works, but she would step if needed.Anyone who experiences Covid-19 symptoms (high temperature, continuous cough or loss or change of smell or taste) should self-isolate and book a test.

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