THE leader of Craven District Council has appealed to people in the area to be vigilant and help prevent a coronavirus lockdown.

Cllr Richard Foster says although he understands people are desperate to return to normal, there is evidence that cases of community transmission are increasing in some parts of Craven.

He said: “We know people in Craven have made great efforts to prevent the spread of the virus in our district over the last few months, and I’d like to thank everyone for their vigilance so far. We also know many residents and businesses are desperate to return to some kind of ‘normality’.

“However, cases in North Yorkshire are rising and Craven is not immune from this. There is evidence that community transmission is increasing in certain areas of the district."

He added: “This is not about blaming anyone for the spread but we are urging people to help prevent, contain and reduce the spread of the virus. We all want to prevent a further full lockdown if possible; we want to be able to keep businesses and schools open.

“So please – stick to the ‘rule of 6’, don’t gather in large groups, and remember to wash your hands, wear face coverings, and maintain social distance."

Craven District Council is a member of the North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum (NYLRF) along with other district and borough councils, the county council, emergency services and the NHS.

Cllr Foster said: “Craven District Council is working closely with partners in the North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum (NYLRF) to support residents, communities and businesses through these difficult times. The new NHS Test and Trace app will be launching next week and this will allow NHS Test and Trace to contact customers with public health advice should there be a Covid-19 outbreak in a venue or area.

“Our Environmental Health team is working with local businesses to advise them further on the app, and other Covid security measures, to help everyone stay safe in Craven.”