Latest confirmed cases of Covid in High Peak spark council chief's plea to residents

The plea from the borough council comes in the midst of lockdown when many of the area’s shops, businesses, sports and leisure facilities have closed to stop the spread of the bug.

In the seven days leading up to November 13, there were 271 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the High Peak. New Mills East and Hayfield topped the area’s table with 32 new cases and Buxton north were at the bottom with three cases. The total number of confirmed cases was ten less than in the previous week.

Council leader Councillor Anthony Mckeown said: “The fact remains that this virus is still very much present in our communities and the only way to stop it spreading is to stay at home as much as possible for the time being and, when you go out for essential reasons, following the basic rules of hands, face, space.

“We’ve all missed out on doing so many of the things we enjoy with the people we love – something that’s brought into sharp focus as we approach Christmas – and I thank everyone for their continued efforts.

“Now is the time to show our strength, double our resolve and stick to the rules so that we can, hopefully, get back to more normal lives in the near future.”

The enhanced cleaning and other safety measures that the council implemented after the first lockdown have meant that many of the things that had to close earlier in this year can stay open this time around.

Market traders selling essential items such as food and drink products and hardware can continue to operate and playgrounds can remain open but events in parks involving more than two people, such as park runs, cannot take place.

In line with national restrictions, leisure centres and swimming pools are closed and football matches on council pitches are suspended.

Coun Mckeown added: “Where we can we’re keeping much-valued local services and facilities like housing repairs, playgrounds and public toilets in operation and, of course, the council remains very much open for business.

“Many of our services are available via our website and people should continue to contact us for help and support from our teams.”