Warning to shoppers in Brighton to avoid coronavirus rate rise

The figure has remained below 70 weekly cases per  100,000 people since November 23.

This is far below the current rate for England (160.9) and the South East (177.7).

A quiet St James's Street in Brighton during lockdown

The highest rate in the city was recorded in the week leading up to October 26, when there were 191.1 new cases per 100,000 people.

But, in the most recent figures recorded during the seven days leading up to December 7, there was a rate of 64.6 new cases per 100,000 people in the city.

This was a slight rise on the rate of 56 cases per 100,000 people reported in the city during the previous week.

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To prevent any further increase in the infection rate, Brighton and Hove City Council's consultant in public health Dr Katie Cuming has urged people in the city to act in a "Covid-safe way" while preparing for Christmas.

She said: "We know the big reduction in cases seen after lockdown was due to less mixing of people and less mixing between households.

"But as people start to go out more there is a risk that infection rates could increase again.

Shoppers in Brighton on the first weekend after the second national lockdown restrictions were lifted

"It is very good news that the vaccination programme has started.

"Health care staff and the over 80s are starting to receive theirs at the Royal Sussex County Hospital.

"At this time of year shops and public spaces can get very busy. But it is possible to prepare for the Christmas holiday in a Covid-safe way.

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"When shopping, try to avoid busy times and always think ‘hands, face, space’.

"Travel on foot, bike or in your own vehicle when possible.

"If you must lift-share or travel on public transport, wear a face covering, keep apart and open windows.

The government coronavirus restrictions in the new tier system Credit: PA Graphics

"If you experience any Covid-related symptoms, even if very mild, do not go shopping.

"You must immediately self-isolate with your household and apply for a test to stop Covid infecting more people.

"It is crucial that we all continue to closely follow the Tier 2 guidelines to maintain what we have achieved - and to stop Covid from spreading widely in the city."