The leader of Cheshire East Council has urged residents to follow public health guidelines over the Christmas period as infection rates rise and fears mount over the new Coronavirus variant.

Cllr Sam Corcoran described the news of a new, faster spreading, strain of the virus as a "significant concern" and reminded people to adhere to the revised Christmas restrictions.

He said: "It is very sad that many people will not be able to meet up with loved ones as they had initially planned under previous guidance.

"Infection rates in Cheshire East are currently rising. We cannot risk letting the virus strengthen its grip in Cheshire East – and this means we must take every precaution and not let down our guard over the festive period."

The rate of infection across the borough is at 165 cases per 100,000, according to a BBC tracker.

The previous relaxation for the period 23-27 December has been scrapped and you can only form a Christmas bubble on Christmas Day. Religious services can still take place with proper social distancing and Covid-secure measures in place.

"With the growing vaccination programme and locally-delivered testing and contact tracing, there is real hope for the new year. Let's not waste the effort and sacrifices we have made together at this most important moment," he added.

The new rules and guidance can be found at www.gov.uk/coronavirus.