A TOTAL of 45 new Covid-19 cases have been confirmed in Cumbria.

In the week ending 4 September, there has been an increase of 11 cases of the virus from the previous week.

Pulbic health chiefs say early indications for the current week suggest the numbers are continuing to increase.

The local increases reflect the national picture in the England, with cases increasing in all areas.

Barrow reported the highest number of new cases in the county, up from 0 to 11, with additional cases being reported during this week.

It is thought that the cases in Barrow are associated with a number of 'distinct and unrelated clusters', with infection having been brought into the town by people returning from elsewhere.

New restrictions limiting social gatherings to six people will come into force on September 14.

Colin Cox, Cumbria’s Director of Public Health, said: “We are now clearly at the point where there is significant risk of a second wave as we head into winter.

"Government is tightening restrictions now to try and prevent that, while also trying to allow society continue to function. This is a difficult balance and inevitably some things may feel contradictory.

“But there is good sense behind what is being put in place and I am fully supportive.

"We really need everyone to take note of the new regulations and act accordingly.

"If we fail to get a grip now then there is the risk of further restrictions that no one wants.

“So I’d urge everyone to stick to the new rules around group sizes, continue to wash your hands regularly, cover your face when in enclosed spaces and maintain social distancing.”