CUMBRIANS are being urged to think carefully about plans for Christmas to avoid putting loved ones at risk - as the number of Covid-19 cases across the county is on the rise.

Despite restrictions easing between December 23 and 27, allowing up to three households to form a Christmas bubble, Cumbria's director of public health Colin Cox is urging people to consider missing this Christmas to be sure they can celebrate many more.

Following the latest Government review this week, Cumbria remains in tier two, while other parts of the country were moved into the very high tier three and Herefordshire was moved down to tier one.

In the week ending December 11, cases locally were up 23 per cent from the previous week, with 472 new cases recorded.

With the relaxation of the rules over the festive period comes concern of an increase in infection rates and a third wave of the virus in the New Year.

Cumbrians are urged to reflect on their circumstances, to think about any possible exposure from work or school that could put loved ones at risk, and consider other ways to celebrate such as getting together virtually.

Mr Cox said: “We know it’s been a difficult year and people will want to spend time with their loved ones over Christmas, but we want them to really think twice about taking risks with their family’s health, particularly loved ones who are vulnerable - such as grandparents.

“In my family we won’t be visiting grandparents this year for just these reasons. That’s not easy, but we’d rather miss this Christmas to be sure of being able to celebrate many more.

“We know from experience how quickly the virus can spread. It would be extremely easy, if we aren’t careful and sensible, to find ourselves facing a third wave in Cumbria, with hospitals under pressure and tighter restrictions imposed after Christmas."

Those deciding to visit others should keep doing the hands, face, space basics, clean touch points, keep indoor spaces well-ventilated and not mix more than three households per bubble. He added that rules on self-isolation following a positive test or development of symptoms must be followed.

Cumbria will remain in tier two until the five-day Christmas break. Following that, the restrictions will resumed and continue until the Government’s next two-week review.

Health secretary Matt Hancock addressed the House of Commons yesterday to announce which areas would be moved into different tiers.

With 18,038 people across the country in hospital with Covid-19, he said every person must play their part to help stop the spread of the virus.

“As we enter the coldest months we must be vigilant and keep this virus under control.

“We must keep suppressing this virus. This isn’t just a matter for Government or for this house, it is a matter for every single person.

“These are always the most difficult months for people’s health and for the NHS,” he said. “We have come so far, we mustn’t blow it now.”