WEST Yorkshire's Covid-19 alert level will remain for the time being at Tier Two.

But council leaders warn that the current 'high risk' status could be upped to the top tier, with tougher restrictions, if people don't follow the regulations designed to stop the spread of the virus.

In a joint statement issued late this afternoon, West Yorkshire council leaders said: "Local and national public health experts agree that there is not a case to move West Yorkshire to Tier Three this week.

"The decision to maintain Tier Two (High Risk) restrictions reflects the progress that has been made by councils, Public Health England, the NHS and other partners working together to reduce the spread of Covid-19 and protect lives.

“To further reduce the risk of increased restrictions becoming necessary, it remains essential that everyone in West Yorkshire plays their part by following the rules, particularly when it comes to instructions to self-isolate. And we need the Government’s support now for measures including local test and trace, deep engagement with our communities and financial help for those self-isolating.

“Tier Two status will continue to have an impact on our economy, particularly the retail, leisure and hospitality sectors and their associated supply chains which together employ more than 200,000 people. We urge the Government to respond to our proposals to protect businesses, jobs and incomes, and to support our plan for economic recovery including a package for people who have already lost their jobs to develop new skills.”