Covid-19 deaths in Suffolk reach 770
The number of people affected by Covid in Suffolk continues to grow.
According to the latest official data, 774 people have now lost their lives to coronavirus in Suffolk, as of Christmas Day (25 December).
That's equivalent to around three quarters of the population of Southwold.
The Suffolk Resilience Forum has emphasised the importance of people strictly following lockdown rules to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
Director of Public Health for Suffolk, Stuart Keeble, said:
"This is such a sad milestone, and my thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by the loss of a loved one.
"Sadly, there will be further deaths, but every single person has the power to bring this number down with immediate effect, to reduce the pressure on our hospitals and to stop people from becoming ill with this deadly disease.
"This new variant is far more infectious, it doesn’t recognise that you follow the rules most of the time, it only takes one opportunity.
"The message could not be clearer: Stay at home. Save lives.
"The lockdown measures are in place because the new strain of the virus is spreading more easily between people. If everyone limits their interaction with each other, we will not be giving the virus the opportunity to affect more people.
"Do not use lockdown restrictions as a challenge to see how you can flex the rules. Question yourself every time you think about leaving your home or getting in the car: is this the safest thing to do to protect my friends and family? Am I putting other people’s loved ones in danger?"
Anyone who is struggling as a result of the lockdown rules can get support and guidance via the Home But Not Alone helpline.
It was set up to help those who are self-isolating and need medicine of food, and can be contacted on 0800 876 6926.