Bedfordshire Police urge public to stay at home as much as possible after hike in coronavirus infection rates

Bedfordshire Police have echoed the council's call for people to stay safe after a rise in coronavirus infection rates in the town.

They are calling on the public to stay at home as much as possible to stop the spread of the virus.

On Friday, we revealed how the Government had listed Bedford as an 'area of concern' following the rise in coronavirus numbers in the town. Bedford Borough Council also delivered leaflets to every home over the weekend urging everyone to do their bit to avoid a local lockdown.

Bedfordshire Police have added their voice and have issued the following advice to residents:

*Stay at home as much as possible, and work from home if you can

*If you have to go out, you must keep a two metre (three steps) distance between you and anyone else who does not live in your home

*Avoid large gatherings

*Wash hands frequently for at least 20 seconds and especially when you return home

*If you or anyone in your household have coronavirus symptoms – a new persistent cough, fever, or a loss/change of taste or smell, immediately self-isolate and book a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus

*Wear a face covering, if you can, when in shops or if you are more likely to come into contact with people you do not normally meet or where it is difficult to maintain social distancing measures

Though a spokesman added: "Please don’t call police on 999 or 101 to report people not wearing face coverings in shops. We understand how frustrating this can be, but it is important to keep our phone lines open for people who need our help in an emergency.

"If you have concerns then please raise these with store staff or security personnel who will receive our support if needed."