The leader of North Herts Disctrict Council is asking people to do all they can to avoid our area slipping into Tier 3.

As Nub News reported, the government has announced that four of the 10 district council areas in Hertfordshire (Broxbourne, Hertsmere, Three Rivers and Watford) will move to the very high level (Tier 3) of local Covid alert categories from a minute past midnight on Wednesday.

The other six district council areas in Hertfordshire - including North Herts District Council which covers Hitchin and surrounding areas - will remain at high alert level (Tier 2) but will be included alongside all other areas in England as part of the tier review planned for Wednesday.

NHDC have warned that it is important everyone continues to play their part in helping to stop the spread of coronavirus.

NHDC leader Martin Stears-Handscomb, said: "Following this announcement, it is clearer than ever that we must continue to do all we can to protect each other and prevent North Hertfordshire from moving into Tier 3.

"The rules on socialising and mixing with other households are in place to help keep people safe and avoid hospitals being overwhelmed.

"Please remember to follow the official guidance: keep washing your hands regularly for 20 seconds; wear a face covering on public transport and indoors where social distancing is difficult; and stay two metres apart from people you do not live with.

"If you do get any symptoms, please protect others around you by self-isolating and booking a test immediately."