The leader of Bracknell Forest Council has reacted to the borough being placed in tier three after an “incredibly disappointing and concerning” rise in coronavirus cases. 

Cllr Paul Bettison OBE, Chairman of the Local Outbreak Engagement Board, said outbreaks in schools and care homes were partly behind the surge in the borough. 

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The borough has an infection rate of 222 cases per 100,000 people over the past seven days, according to the latest government data. 

This is up from a rate of 87.3 when it was announced Bracknell Forest would enter tier 2 at the end of November. 

He said: “The rise in numbers is incredibly disappointing and concerning. We know the rise has occurred somewhat due to outbreaks within schools and care homes but sadly our local rate has also risen due to transmission both within and between households. This means some people haven’t been following rules and are putting themselves and their loved ones at risk. The impact that this will have on our residents and our NHS is the reason we all need to do all we can to reduce the spread.  

“I know that this will be frustrating for many of our residents and we understand that frustration. The Christmas Bubble restrictions will still apply between 23 and 27 December but this time should not be seen as a chance to socialise with whoever people want. The Christmas Bubble is just three households for the whole period and those three households must not mix indoors with anyone from outside this bubble. Please make sure you give nothing more than festive cheer this year or else the consequences could be devastating for your family – particularly older relatives.  

“While the vaccine is being rolled out, there is still a great need to be vigilant and abide by the rules. It will be some time before the wider community receives the vaccine and until this time the risks are still present. Therefore, it is essential that anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 isolates and gets tested. Also, anyone who has been in contact with someone who has tested positive must self-isolate as advised. Self-isolation means staying at home and not leaving for food or other essentials. If you do not have anyone who is able to deliver these essentials there is help available through our wonderful team of volunteers at our partners, The Ark. We know that people who are having to self-isolate may not be able to work from home, if this is the case, financial support is available, detail of which are on our website. 

“The hands, face, space message is still key, if we all do our bit, we can help to protect our family, friends and our community.”