WARRINGTON South MP Andy Carter is speaking to ministers as he aims to bring additional coronavirus testing capacity to the town.

The rate of new Covid-19 cases in the town is now the sixth highest in England, according to the latest Public Health England figures.

In the seven days up to September 10, there were 206 new cases compared with 61 in the week previous.

The town’s rate of new cases now stands at 98.1 per 100,000 people – more than three times the rate in the seven days up to September 3, which was said to be 29.

Conservative Mr Carter says he is concerned to see the level of increase in cases in the town over the past seven days.

He added: “I’m speaking to ministers at the Department for Health and Warrington Borough Council to look to bring additional testing capacity into Warrington.

“The rapid spike may mean it’s necessary to look at extra measures to reduce the spread of the virus.

“It’s really important to follow the basic rules, no matter what your age and wherever you are, remember, wash your hands regularly for 20 seconds, wear a face covering in enclosed spaces and make space from people you don’t live with.

“While a high number of cases to date have been in younger age groups the possibility is they will transmit the virus to those who are at greater risk and vulnerable which is something we all want to avoid.”