COVID cases have surged by 20 per cent in Cheshire East as health chiefs ask people to stick to new Plan B rules.

Those testing positive for the virus numbered 197 yesterday (Thursday) according to government figures and there have been 1,879 positive cases reported in the last seven days, although hospitalisations are in line with national trends that have stayed constant.

The total number of confirmed Covid-19 patients being treated by Mid Cheshire Hospitals Trust this week (December 7) was 22.

But overall Covid infection rates have risen across the borough with the most recently recorded (Saturday, December 4) Cheshire East rate per 100,000 population at 485.2 compared to the national figure of 463.

Several areas of Crewe have rates well over 500 and in the north east of the town the rate is approaching 600.

With the country bracing itself for a wave of new infections from the Omicron variant, on Wednesday evening PM Boris Johnson announced a toughening of restrictions in England to slow its spread.

Health chiefs in the borough are urging residents and businesses to adhere to the new measures, which include compulsory wearing of face masks in most public venues, including theatres and cinemas from today (Friday)

Face coverings will also be required by law in most indoor public places and on public transport, including taxis.

From Monday (December 13) the guidance to work from home is being reintroduced and from Wednesday (December 15) NHS COVID Pass will be mandatory for entry into certain venues and events.

This means that those aged 18 years or over must show their NHS COVID Pass, or an alternative proof of a negative test result, such as an email or text proof, to gain entry.

Self-isolation is to be replaced by daily lateral flow testing for contacts of Covid-positive people.

Dr Matt Tyrer, director of public health at Cheshire East Council, said: "With cases of the Omicron doubling every two to three days these new precautions will provide more time to increase booster uptake as getting fully vaccinated is still the best way of protecting yourself and others against Covid-19."

You can the NHS COVID Pass through: the NHS App - NHS (www.nhs.uk), NHS COVID Pass - NHS (www.nhs.uk), a letter that can be obtained on NHS.UK or by calling 119.