Cheshire West and Chester Council are urging their local communities to behave responsibly, to prevent a spike in Covid-19 cases.

"If we act now, we have time to avoid a new peak in infections and a local lockdown." Council leaders said.

In the seven days to 12 September, there were 106 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Cheshire West and 100 confirmed cases in Cheshire East, a four-fold increase on recent case numbers.

With Merseyside, Warrington and Halton local authorities already entering a new lockdown phase from tomorrow (Tuesday 22nd September), the Council leaders feel the next seven days offer a crucial opportunity to curb the number of infections in our area of Cheshire.

Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council Councillor Louise Gittins said: "Many people have been observing public health guidance since lockdown was lifted and we have done well to make changes to our lives but we cannot be complacent. Now is the time to redouble our efforts.

"We are seeing a big rise in case numbers and at this rate local lockdown restrictions in Cheshire West are possible as are increased risks to the health of local people.

"This rise is particularly the case with young people. We need their support to get us back on track, but all our residents and businesses have the opportunity to turn this tide.

"We can make the difference. But we need to act now or our progress will be lost.

"If we all play our part and make sensible changes to our behaviour straight away, maybe we can avoid having to impose further restrictions this autumn and leading up to Christmas."

The Councils are also putting in place enhanced prevention measures, and will take action through local powers to protect the public, if they deem it necessary.

All residents are asked to

• Keep to the rule of six
• Wash hands regularly
• Wear a face covering in places where social distancing may be difficult
• Social distance by two metres in public

If you have COVID-19 symptoms of high fever, continuous cough and loss of taste or smell, get tested by calling 119 or visit nhs.uk/coronavirus. If you have a positive test or are alerted by a contact tracer, play your part to protect your community by self-isolating for 14 days.