The leader of Rutland County Council says there should be no complacency over coronavirus as he urged people to follow the rules and guidance.

Coun Oliver Hemsley made the comments as official government figures show a surge in the number of cases in Rutland, which for most of the pandemic has had one of the best rates in the country for the number of cases.

However, as Nub news reported this week, the county reported 14 cases on Tuesday and ten yesterday.

Coun Hemsley commented: "Like most areas across the country, we've seen a notable increase in confirmed cases of COVID-19 this week, after Public Health England fixed a mistake in its national reporting. With this error corrected, we now have a more accurate understanding of the case numbers in Rutland.

"It's clear that the UK is in the grip of a second wave and Rutland is by no means immune to this. We have cases across the County and although our rates remain below the national average, they are now right in line with the regional average for the East Midlands. There is absolutely no room for complacency.

"Following public health guidance and sticking to the rules are not optional. We need to protect the communities we live in and the people we care about. Wash and sanitise your hands regularly. Wear a face mask in shops and crowded spaces.

"Keep your distance from one another and self-isolate if you develop any COVID symptoms – a new continuous cough, a high temperature or a loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell.

"We have all worked extremely hard to control the virus in Rutland and it is more important than ever that we continue to do this. It is not about you, as an individual. It is about us, as a Community, and together we can stay safe."