HEREFORDSHIRE was today issued with a warning as it moves into the most lenient tier of the Government's coronavirus regulations.

People are being asked, despite the temptations of Christmas, to follow Covid-19 guidance to help keep the county's infection rate low.

Tier 1, which Herefordshire enters today, puts people on medium alert and is the lowest of the three tiers of regulations.

The Isles of Scilly, Isle of Wight and Cornwall are the only other parts of England in Tier 1.

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Dr Rebecca Howell-Jones, Herefordshire’s acting director of public health, said: “The residents of Herefordshire have done a brilliant job in observing the Covid-19 guidance and helping to keep the number of Covid-19 cases low compared to other parts of the country.

“However, with Christmas and new year just around the corner, we have reached another key point in the course of the pandemic and I want to stress the importance of continuing to do all we can to prevent transmission and protect our family and friends.

"No one can afford to relax their behaviour. Covid-19 is a highly infectious virus and can spread very quickly – as we’ve seen in other parts of the UK and countries across the world.

“We want you to enjoy a Covid-free festive period so please do your bit to keep yourself and your loved ones – particularly vulnerable and older people – safe.

"Social distancing, wearing a face covering in most indoor public settings away from home, and regular handwashing are still key in our battle against the virus.

"Remember, if you meet up with friends and family, it is safer to do it outdoors.”

The Government reviews the tiers every 14 days, and the results of the next review are expected to be announced on Wednesday, December 30.