Blackburn with Darwen Council announces new measures to avoid being next local lockdown area

Two towns teetering on the edge of local lockdown have announced new emergency measures to tackle oubtreaks of coronavirus.

Blackburn with Darwen Council told residents only two people can now visit another person at home and face coverings should be worn in public with immediate effect.

It has also urged anyone to get tested for COVID-19 – even if they have no symptoms.

Elsewhere in England, face coverings are still optional in some public places like shops – although they will become mandatory on Friday 24 July – and groups of six can meet outside at a friend’s home in their garden.

Blackburn had 47 cases of the virus per 100,000 people in the week up to 11 July, an increase from 31.6 cases per 100,000 the previous week.Advertisement

It is third on the list of highest weekly rates, behind Leicester, which has a rate of 118.2 cases per 100,000 and is subject to a local lockdown, and nearby Pendle, with a rate of 76.6.

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