East Riding entering new coronavirus phase says Leader

The East Riding is entering a new phase of the coronavirus pandemic and residents should continue to “play their part” to keep rising cases under control, the council leader said.

Cllr Richard Burton said in his update at the meeting of East Riding Council that the area would seek to avoid a local lockdown unless “absolutely necessary”.

He called on residents to continue following social distancing rules, the council’s ‘Three Steps to Safety’ guidelines and for those with symptoms or awaiting test results to self isolate.

It comes as Public Health England figures showed coronavirus cases were increasing across the county, with Pocklington, Brough, Willerby and Kirk Ella and areas outside Bridlington among the hardest hit.

Cllr Burton said:

“We’re at a real cross roads and are entering a new phase of the pandemic.

“I’m now urging everyone to play their part, infection rates here are lower than other parts of Yorkshire but if we don’t act now there will be more.

“We need to get through this crucial period, we will only avoid a surge if residents do the basics.

“Keep washing your hands, keep wearing your face masks and stay home and self isolate if you have coronavirus symptoms, have tested positive or are awaiting test results.

“We must do the right thing to protect our communities, our loved ones and those we cherish.

“If you have been told to self isolate and are not, then please stop and think about what you’re doing.

“The East Riding has fared better than other parts of the country, but every loss of life has been a personal tragedy.

“We will come out of this public health crisis even stronger than before.

“We want to avoid a local lockdown unless absolutely necessary, the future is in our hands.”