Covid-19 cases in pockets of Wiltshire have risen substantially according to the latest public figures – leading to reminders for people to stick to the guidance.

In Devizes West, in the seven days leading up to February 19, there were 30 new cases recorded – a rise of 22 (275 per cent).

Devizes East recorded 15 cases, up by nine compared to the previous week (150 per cent).

In Market Lavington & Bishops Canning, the number of recorded cases has increased by six – with eight reported by February 19. 

While cases have decreased in number in Potterne and Rowde, there were still 14 recorded during the same period.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

Kate Blackburn, director of public health for Wiltshire, warned that it was vital for residents to continue to abide by the current rules to keep infection rates down.

"That means staying at home as much as possible and minimising contact with others,” she told the Gazette.

"With the ongoing vaccine rollout providing a clear route out of this situation, we must not let our guards down now and undo the recent progress made.

“We’ve seen how quickly the virus can spread so any complacency now could have a negative impact later on. We thank everyone for their support.”

Devizes town councillor, Kelvin Nash said: “Cases are on the rise and we have to all be vigilant still and keep up with the current restrictions.

“People have perhaps become complacent, so it is easy to drop your guard.” 

He was echoed by Roundway councillor Laura Mayes who has encouraged people to keep to the rules and "follow current restrictions."

Cases in other areas of Wiltshire have also risen.

Bowerhill, Atworth & Whitley rose by six to 14 cases and Derry Hill and Hilmarton cases rose to 20, an increase of 11 from the previous week. Melksham North also recorded a rise in recorded seven new cases over the period for a total of 19.

However, in the county as a whole, positive cases of the virus have declined.

In Wiltshire, 506 new cases of Covid-19 have been reported during the last seven days – as of 4pm on Tuesday, February 22.

The mortality rate in Wiltshire now stands at 141.4 per 100,000, which is lower than the national rate of 197.5.

Cllr Jonathon Seed, who represents Summerham and Seend added: "Whilst it is great news that the Prime Minister has outlined how and when the country will be released from the covid restrictions, it’s of concern to me that cases of coronavirus are on the rise in my local area. 

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

"Despite the outstanding programme of vaccination that has been rolled out by our local surgeries, now is not the time to relax our guard and we need to maintain our social distancing, only go out for essentials or for work if we can’t work from home, and for exercise.”

More to follow.