THE COVID-19 rate for Leeds stands at 88.3 per 100,000 people today, with 8 per cent of those tested having positive results.

The rates have risen since last Friday when the city avoided having stricter coronavirus restrictions imposed. At that stage the rates stood at 78.3 per 100,000 people, with 7.1 per cent of those testing proving positive - and the city was warned it could face further restrictions if infections continued to rise.

People have been urged to do everything they can to help stop the spread of the virus as the city remains in enhanced support.

Councillor Judith Blake, Leader of Leeds City Council, said on Friday: "We are at a crucial point and we need everyone to get behind the mammoth effort we’ve been making as a city to help slow these alarming rates and keep us all safe. This means following the guidelines, observing the new rule of six and keeping safety at the front of our minds at all times.

“Concerted efforts have been increasingly stepped up across the city to tackle the spread of the virus. There have been big pushes on enforcement, getting information to people and making sure the right support is in place involving partners across every sector, public, private and voluntary and innumerable people determined to keep Leeds safe. But we cannot do this without everyone joining in.”

Victoria Eaton, director of public health for Leeds, added: "I cannot stress enough how important it is for everyone to play their part. We can only stop further spread of the virus if everyone knows their responsibilities and is supported to reduce their contacts. So many people are doing what they can. We need everyone following the rules and paying particular attention to the new rule of six.

“I would also urge people to remember the importance of personal hygiene and safe behaviour in helping control the virus, in particular with handwashing and social distancing.”