Statement on Leicestershire's move into Tier 4

I’d agree with the Government approach as we have to drive down infection rates as we head into the New Year and it’s crucial that we take all the necessary steps to protect the public’s health – particularly those who are elderly or clinically extremely vulnerable.

"Following those guidelines of ‘hands, face and space’ has never been more important. We need everyone to be as rigorous as possible in heeding the advice. We’ve got to follow this every minute of the day

Person:Nick Rushton, county council leader

We’ve got rapidly-rising infection rates across most of the county, so it’s been evident for a few days now that there would be a raising of the tier level. Hospitals are also massively under pressure and that’s coupled with these rising rates.

The fact that neighbouring Northamptonshire has gone through the tiers from 2 to 4 in rapid succession also illustrates how fast the rates are rising.

What we’re potentially seeing is the spread of a much more infectious type of COVID-19, which is spreading dangerously in the south east. We’ve got to get ahead of it here before it’s too late.

Person:Mike Sandys, director of public health