Large increase in coronavirus cases in Leicestershire over the weekend

A large increase in coronavirus cases was recorded in Leicestershire over the weekend, as new restrictions come into force to curb the increase.

Public Health England confirmed almost 200 new cases across the city and county over the weekend.

Almost half of these were recorded in Leicester, with 99 new cases, taking the total in the city to 6,142 since the start of lockdown.

The wider county saw a further 91 cases over the weekend. The breakdown of these across each district is as folows:

  • Charnwood – 21 new cases (993 total cases)
  • Melton – 4 new cases (242 total cases)
  • Harborough – 9 new cases (470 total cases)
  • Oadby & Wigston – 18 new cases (625 total cases)
  • Hinckley & Bosworth – 14 new cases (634 total cases)
  • North West Leicestershire – 4 new cases (374 total cases)
  • Blaby – 20 new cases (662 total cases)

The numbers were published as the new “rule of six” coronavirus restrictions come into force today. The new laws limit social gatherings to six people indoors and outdoors in England. The rules also affect places such as pubs, restaurants, cafes and public outdoor spaces.