Coronavirus – Latest Local Updates

Six people have now died after testing positive for Coronavirus in Leicestershire.

The latest victims passed away at Leicester’s hospitals – they were a man and woman in their 70s and two men in their 80s.

The number of confirmed cases in the county has risen to 65 – the figure in Northamptonshire, where two deaths have been confirmed, is 37.

Parking charges are suspended at all Council car parks across Harborough in line with Government health advice to prevent the spread of coronavirus. People will not need to get a ticket to park and all machines will be covered up. 

The Council is re-iterating the national advice for people to stay at home, unless journeys are absolutely necessary.

All public toilets operated by the Council have also been shut.

Leicestershire’s Local Resilience Forum – made up of the NHS, emergency services and councils – has now declared a major incident in response to the Covid-19 outbreak.

They are holding daily meetings in a bid to work together to support the work being done to stop the spread of the virus.

Police have been receiving reports of people gathering outside in groups of more than two, which is now banned under the Government’s lockdown procedures.

Nick Adderley is Chief Constable of Northamptonshire:

Hundreds of people across the Hfm Region have come forward to offer to help others.

They are offering to help with tasks like shopping, dog walking or collecting prescriptions for those confined to their homes.

More people are being encouraged to do their bit to help too – Harborough Council has teamed up with town charity VASL to mobilise volunteers.

Councillor Phil Knowles spoke to Hfm:

You can register to volunteer on-line – click HERE

They will be able to offer help with tasks such as shopping, dog walking, posting mail or collecting prescriptions – for anyone unable to get out and about because of the outbreak – or be a friendly voice at the end of the phone to an elderly or vulnerable resident.