Last week, Frodsham Nub News reported that there had been fewer than three new coronavirus cases in Frodsham and five in the area covering Helsby, Kingsley, Alvanley and Manley.

This week, the situation looks even more positive, with fewer than five cases being recorded across our whole area in the seven days up to April 1.

This downward trend is echoed across the majority of rural west Cheshire, with only 75 cases being reported in the whole borough in the past week.

This puts the average rolling rate for Cheshire West at 30 per 100,000 people, marking a reduction of 95 per cent from its January peak of 600 per 100,000.

No Covid patients have been admitted to the Countess of Chester Hospital this week, although nine people in the borough have sadly died within 28 days of a positive test.

Vaccinations

Last week, Cheshire West reached an impressive milestone in its vaccination drive. By April 1, 60 per cent of the borough's eligible population had received their first dose.

Across the county as a whole, 415,251 jabs had been administered at that point in time, including nearly 40,000 second doses.

Director of Public Health at Cheshire West and Chester Council, Ian Ashworth, said: "This is a major milestone in the borough and I want to thank all those involved in this successful programme, including NHS Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group, all of our NHS vaccinators, our volunteers and supporting partners such as the Army, Fire Service and even schools who are helping with the smooth running of the programme.

"The biggest thanks has to go to all of our residents who have already taken up the offer of the COVID-19 vaccination. Please make sure you attend your appointment for your second dose to help protect yourself and those you care for.

"As restrictions start to ease, please do not become complacent, even if you have received your first dose vaccination. Please continue to wash your hands regularly, wear a face covering in enclosed spaces and keep social distancing to help stop the spread of COVID-19."

People aged 50 and above who have not had their COVID-19 vaccination can book an appointment through the national booking service, where they can choose a time slot and location that suits them.

People who are eligible, but without online access, can call 119 to book a vaccination between 7am and 11pm seven days a week. People are also able to book appointments on behalf of people they care for if they are unable to do it themselves.

Sources: Public Health England and NHS England