'This remains a crucial period - we can't be complacent': Leicestershire County Council leader's message as Covid rates increase in Harborough

The leader of Leicestershire County Council is warning that people cannot be “complacent” as the local rate of Covid infection continues to increase.

Cllr Nick Rushton is urging people to be on their guard as the number of new coronavirus cases surges across Harborough and Leicestershire as well as the entire UK.

“This remains a crucial period.

“Although Leicestershire’s average is below the national rate, we are seeing steep rises and we cannot be complacent.

“The new strain is here and it’s much easier to catch and pass on without even knowing about it.

“That’s why we’re rolling out new-style testing in persistent hotspots across the county,” said Cllr Rushton.

“As one of the first in the country to localise test and trace, we have the expertise to make this work.

“We remain at the forefront of the battle against coronavirus.

“When and where we need the community testing most, we’re ready to roll.”

The leading Conservative councillor said we are all living in “extraordinary times”.

“But with the vaccine rolling out, it’s important we heed the national guidelines and work together to get through this.

“Throughout the pandemic, our residents have shown resilience and kindness and I have no doubt they will continue to do so.

“We’re still doing everything we can to support our communities and businesses,” said Cllr Rushton.

“From supporting the vaccine roll out to working round-the-clock to keep people safe, and to giving much-needed funding to businesses and struggling rural pubs, we’re taking wide-ranging action.”

Keep up to date with service updates by visiting www.leicestershire.gov.uk or following the authority’s social media accounts.

During the Covid pandemic, the county council has also:

• Invested £360,000 to extend free school meal vouchers over Christmas – and up to £1 million until April

• Given over £500,000 of Government funding to food banks and community groups

• Launched a £2 million fund to support communities – a hospice, a homelessness service and a charity supporting young, older and vulnerable people are just three of those awarded money

• Supported struggling rural pubs by offering £1,000 to those at the heart of communities

• Established a £750,000 fund supporting small businesses to get back on their feet

• Set up a dedicated team to ensure the 25,000 people identified as ‘shielded’ by the NHS have support and care in place if required – and delivered hundreds of emergency food parcels and prescriptions.