We are now nearly four weeks into this latest national lockdown and while there are encouraging signs of a fall in cases across Hertfordshire, our numbers in North Hertfordshire are still giving us real cause for concern.

We know that the vast majority of you are following the rules and this was starting to pay off in terms of new cases, however very sadly, there has been almost 600 new cases in the last week, many in the over 60s and more people have died.

The Lister Hospital is under enormous pressure with some very unwell patients, not just elderly people, but people of all ages.

We know it is tough, we know you are fed up, but please don't be tempted to bend the rules, we've got to work together to get through this.

Every person who flexes the rules, risks spreading the virus and increasing the pressure on the NHS, as well as potentially putting their lives and those of others at risk.

If you do need help, please reach out to us or contact the Herts Help service by calling 0300 123 4044 or email [email protected].

Please, stay at home to help protect the NHS and save lives.