Covid-19 infection rates in Waverley are rising steeply, and the borough council is calling on residents to do what they can to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Data published by the county council shows that, for the week to 26th October, the Waverley rate was 117.9 cases for every 100,000 people. This is significantly higher than the 24.5 rate the borough was experiencing a month ago (the week to 25th September).

Waverley said in a statement this afternoon: "It is important that we all work together now to try and prevent the spread of the virus to protect one another and try to avoid moving into the High Alert Level (Tier 2)."

Waverley Leader John Ward said: "At this point we don't yet know when or if the borough will go into the High Alert Level. However, what we do know is that Covid rates are rising in the borough and we need to take this very seriously.

"We are at a point where we all need to take more action. Let's work together to help protect ourselves, our friends, family and loved ones, our community and our NHS from this awful virus.

"The best way to do this is to follow the guidance and remember the hands, face, space advice. Avoid meeting up in groups of more than six people, and if you have symptoms please do make sure you self-isolate.

"I know with Hallowe'en and Bonfire Night coming up, it may be tempting to want to hold get-togethers or celebrations, but my message is this: if you are celebrating, please do so in a Covid-secure way and follow the guidance.

"I have been amazed and feel immensely proud of what our borough has achieved so far; all the work of volunteers setting up schemes to support those in their community, our businesses rallying together to keep customers safe and all the sacrifices being made on an individual level too.

"I know it has been difficult and there will be more challenging times to come, but if we all play our part we can turn this around and avoid further local restrictions. Together we will get through this."

Several different factors are used when determining if an area should go into a Higher Alert Level. These include infection rates and test positivity, including among older and more at-risk age groups, as well as the growth rate, hospital admissions and other factors such as contract tracing intelligence.

Cllr Ward added: "We have asked for clarification but it appears that there are no fixed tipping points and the criteria to change is through the combination of a number of indicators. However, we understand that an area that goes above 100 cases per 100,000 comes under increased scrutiny.

"We are still pushing to have a greater understanding of the criteria and will endeavour to keep residents informed of our findings."

People who have been financially impacted by Covid and who need help and support can access it by contacting the council on 01483 523204 or visiting the Covid community organisation support information page. Click here for guidance on living in a Medium Alert Level area. An interactive map showing the latest figures can be found here.