Whitby residents and visitors urged to follow public safety rules with COVID-19 infection rates on the rise

Updates relating to the whole of England are expected from the Prime Minister as it is acknowledged that cases of Covid-19 infection are rising significantly.

The district of Scarborough and, specifically, the town of Whitby have been watched closely for spikes in infection.

The local response to the rise in the number of coronavirus cases is being led by Lincoln Sargeant and the public health team at North Yorkshire County Council. Targeted action to reduce the spread could include additional testing and increased community engagement.

Town Mayor, Coun Linda Wild said she recognised the challenges faced by the community and tourist destination.

She said: "We know Whitby continues to throng with visitors.

"Despite the national concern and the local focus, some people are unaware of the general rules, let alone the enhanced one for Whitby.

"We all have to take care, be kind and remind others to do the same. The local rate is falling again, but we remain vulnerable."

Whitby Town Council recognises that clear, up-to-date information is important for everybody’s safety.

"We’ve called on North Yorkshire County Council to keep us all informed and promote community safety", said Coun Wild.

On Friday (September 18) the borough of Scarborough was named an "area of concern" by Public Health England due to a spike in cases, with the area around Whitby singled out as one of the worst affected areas.

Yesterday a drive-through coronavirus testing centre made an additional visit to Whitby as the north of the borough finds itself at the centre of an outbreak.

Advice from Whitby Town Council

Please remember to:

• Wash hands more often and for at least 20 seconds

• Make space - stay two metres apart from others

• Wear a face covering when leaving home while circulating infection levels are increasing. This is an enhanced request in Whitby to help prevent the spread of the virus here, where our pinch-points make social distancing harder.

• Avoid large crowds altogether

• Follow the ‘rule-of-six’ regulation

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Thank you

James Mitchinson