Rutland County Council is urging residents to maintain their positive response to COVID-19 by continuing to follow the latest national guidance intended to keep people and communities safe.

People living in Leicester and some outlying areas are being asked to follow stricter lockdown measures for at least two weeks, because of a local outbreak in the city.

The tougher restrictions in place in Leicester do not apply to Rutland. However, Rutland County Council is calling on local residents to carry on observing the rules and restrictions that are still in place to help protect individuals and families.

Council leader Oliver Hemsley said: "Although COVID-19 restrictions are being eased across much of the country – including here in Rutland – we can't be complacent in any way. The vast majority of people in Rutland have followed government guidance to the letter throughout this pandemic.

"We have seen fewer recorded deaths and infections than many other areas and the Council is incredibly grateful to residents for the responsible attitude they have shown.

Coun Hemsley continued: "We must continue to work with our partners in neighbouring areas to protect people's lives and livelihoods. We can all do this by staying positive, as we have throughout, and taking the right precautions – observing social distancing rules, washing our hands regularly and getting tested if we have any symptoms.

"We are enjoying more freedom but this comes with added responsibilities. It is vital that we continue to follow the rules, stay at home as much as possible and limit our contact with others. By working together in this way we can keep ourselves and each other safe."

Coun Hemsley added: "We know there are still lots of questions and concerns and we will do everything we can to keep people updated as more information becomes available."

Pubs, restaurants and hairdressers in Rutland will be permitted to open on 4 July as planned – provided all necessary safety and social distancing restrictions are in place. Shops that were allowed to open on 15 June will remain open, as will Rutland schools.

The relaxation of shielding restrictions that is currently planned for 6 July will also go ahead in Rutland, as prompted by recent changes in government guidance.

The latest national guidance regarding COVID-19 is as follows:

Stay at home as much as possible

Work from home if you can

Limit contact with other people

Keep your distance if you go out (2 metres apart where possible)

Wash your hands regularly

Do not leave home if you or anyone in your household has symptoms

The most important symptoms of COVID-19 are the recent onset of any of the following:

A new continuous cough

A high temperature

A loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell

Anyone displaying any of these symptoms must stay at home and arrange to have a test by following the instructions online at: www.gov.uk/coronavirus

If you need medical advice about your symptoms you should use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service: 111.nhs.uk/covid-19