A second national lockdown would be a "bitter pill to swallow for many", says Rutland Council leader Oliver Hemsley.

Coun Helmsley, in a statement issued yesterday, also said he "feels the pain of" many businesses who have worked so hard to re-open with safety measures in place.

But he reassured the county that the council was ready to help though it was still awaiting details of lockdown measures from central government.

His comments came as Rutland yesterday reported two new cases of Coronavirus yesterday (Sunday), adding to three recorded on Saturday.

Overall, 35 cases were recorded in the week to Sunday, giving it a weekly rate of 87.7 cases per 100,000- just over a third of the England average of 228.1 cases per 100,000.

The official government figures from NHS showed a small decline in the weekly rate of cases. But one death was recorded yesterday, putting the county's total at 15 since figures were first recorded in March.

Coun Hemsley said: ""Saturday's announcement will be a bitter pill to swallow for many. After leaving the first national lockdown behind, people in Rutland have shown a real willingness to knuckle down and follow the rules to keep our numbers as low as possible.

"I also feel the pain of local businesses, who have worked incredibly hard to get back on their feet after reopening with COVID-secure measures in place.

Coun Hemsley continued: "We still don't have all the details. We are waiting on further information from the government and a decision by parliament on Wednesday.

"All we can do now is stay strong, continue to follow the rules and work together to get the virus back under control."

He added: "Just like the first lockdown, it's really important that people know help is available whenever they need it.

"We have pulled in staff and resources from right across the council to make sure we can respond to changes like this and continue to support our local communities. If you need assistance, or know someone else who does, please let us know."

Get help and support

Rutland County Council offers help and support to people facing hardship due to the impact of COVID-19.

This includes:

Financial support

Housing support

Help with food

Assistance for people who are clinically vulnerable

Mental health support

Further info can be found at: www.rutland.gov.uk/coronavirus.

If you need help or support because of COVID-19 you can also contact our Crisis Helpline by calling: 01572 729 603.

The Crisis Helpline can be contacted from 9am to 5pm Monday to Thursday, and 9am to 4.30pm on Friday.

The Council also has a dedicated emergency number that can be contacted outside of these hours: 01858 464 499