MIDDLEWICH residents are being urged to follow the coronavirus guidance following a recent rise in cases.

The rate of Covid-19 infection rose by more than double across Cheshire East between August 31 and September 7 – from 11.2 to 24.2 per 100,000 people – while other parts of the north west have seen steeper spikes.

Cheshire East Council is now reminding residents to follow social distancing guidance – as well as the new ‘rule of six’ which comes into force on Monday.

Cllr Jill Rhodes, cabinet member for public health and corporates services, said: “While the infection rate in Cheshire East remains generally low, there has been a rise in infections across the region during the past few weeks and this is something we need to eradicate.

Knutsford Guardian:

“We know many residents are enjoying being able to get back to socialising with friends following the relaxation in measures around pubs and restaurants, and to get back some sense of normality that the countrywide lockdown took away.

“However, we must all do the right thing for Cheshire East by remembering that we are still in the midst of a pandemic and we should not allow complacency to set in.”

Social gatherings of more than six people will be banned from Monday, September 14 – both indoors and outdoors.

Residents should also continue to keep a two-metre distance from anyone they do not live with as much as possible, wash hands often for 20 seconds and avoid touching their face.

Face coverings should also be worn on public transport, in shops and at medical appointments, and customers at hospitality businesses should provide contact details for NHS Track and Trace.

Anyone developing any coronavirus symptoms should self-isolate for 10 days and book a Covid-19 test by calling 119 or visiting nhs.uk/coronavirus