THE number of new coronavirus cases in west Cheshire held steady over the past week, according to the latest Government figures.

The latest data shows there were 19 new cases reported in the borough for July 29-August 4, the same number as there were for July 22-28.

It comes as people are being urged to ensure they use face coverings in shops, takeaways and public transport, avoid crowds and keep to social distancing of two metres.

The plea from Directors of Public Health, who are now leading the local response to Covid-19 outbreaks, comes as Covid-19 cases are increasing in other North West communities, with Preston the latest area to see a tightening of restrictions.

There have been several outbreaks across the region and working with the NHS and Public Health England, directors have deployed additional mobile testing units to pick up positive cases.

Contacts of positive cases can then be traced to prevent a further spread of the virus.

Local authorities have been working hard with partners dealing with settings involved in outbreaks and helping them operate safely.

Ian Ashworth, Director of Public Health at Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “Unless you are exempt, it is so important people protect themselves and others by wearing a face covering, keeping a distance of two metres and regularly washing your hands.

"We have seen people incorrectly wearing face coverings so they must cover your nose and mouth, you should only handle your mask with clean hands.

"We want to prevent local lockdowns and protect frontline services who will need to deal with illness as a result of Covid-19.

"We really need people to support us by doing everything they can to help keep our families, friends and communities safe. We all need to play our part - help protect our lives, livelihoods and help reduce the spread of the virus.”

Councillor Louise Gittins, leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, is calling on the pubs and restaurants across the borough that have not been taking customers’ contact details to start doing so, to play their part to protect lives and livelihoods in the borough.

Cllr Gittins said: “Council buildings and libraries have begun taking the contact details of all visitors so that we can pass them onto the NHS Test and Trace Service, if a person who has tested positive for Covid-19 has visited our buildings.

“Many pubs and restaurants are also gathering this information and it is really important that all hospitality venues in the borough do the same.

"Residents have told the council they feel safer and more confident visiting a pub or restaurant if it is Covid-secure. This includes social distancing between staff and customers being observed and customers’ contact details being taken.

"Residents are also reporting venues where they do not feel safe to the council.

“A Covid-secure business will attract more customers, while also playing a part in protecting lives and livelihoods in west Cheshire.”

  • If you do develop symptoms of Covid-19 (fever, new continuous cough or loss/change of taste or smell) you can obtain a test by visiting nhs.uk/coronavirus or calling 119.

If your test is positive you must follow the guidance including self-isolating for 10 days and members of your household self-isolating for 14 days.