Let's keep these rates going down - Council Leader's rallying cry as Government gets set to review COVID-19 tiers

There have been 284 new cases of coronavirus for the week ending December 6 in Stockton-on-Tees, a rate of 143.9 per 100,000 population.

This compares with 405 new cases the previous week, a rate of 205.2 per 100,000 population.

Under the Government's three-tier system of COVID-19 restrictions the Borough is currently placed in Tier 3 (very high alert), which brings the toughest measures.

But the Government has said it will review those tiers by next Wednesday (December 16).

Councillor Bob Cook, Leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: "It's encouraging to see the rate of coronavirus infection falling but there were also 18 COVID-related deaths in the Borough last week so we cannot be complacent.

"We all need keep up the fight and follow the rules so the rates carry on going down.

"The Government is reviewing the tiers in the coming week so by doing that we give ourselves the best possible chance of being moved out of the tightest restrictions in the run up to Christmas.

"Wash your hands regularly and wear a face covering when shopping or on public transport. Stay two metres apart from anyone not in your household or support bubble.

"Be careful that your guard doesn't drop, even in situations where it is easy to forget about social distancing like at the school gates or when out shopping.

"It's only by doing these things that we can get ourselves out of tightest restrictions.

"Thank you for all you are doing and let's keep these rates going down."

You can keep up with all Coronavirus (COVID-19) related developments in the Borough via the Council's webpage Stockton Borough Council.