Richmond residents have been reminded to stay covid safe if they go on holiday in an impassioned plea from the council leader.

There have been 42 new cases of Covid-19 among Richmond residents in the nine days up to Sunday, August 16.

This is an acceleration of the infection rate – until August 8, Richmond was recording 0-2 new cases a day.

Richmond Council attributed the increase in part to "relaxation of lockdown and potentially foreign travel".

The council said it is monitoring the figures closely and that Richmond's testing rate is the highest in London, with 1,153 people being tested per 100,000 residents over the past week.

In a video message yesterday (Tuesday, August 18), council leader Gareth Roberts said testing data showed that there were "no clusters forming" (virus hotspots).

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"We are also confident that no particular part of the borough is being more directly impacted than any other," he added.

A total of 604 people in Richmond have tested positive for the coronavirus and 152 people have died.

[h3]Don't take unnecessary risks – Gareth Roberts

In a written message released via the council press office, Mr Roberts said: "I know that people are concerned about the slight increase in local Covid-19 cases. Richmond has always had a low base line, so even a small number of cases can result in alarm.

"However, I want to reassure everyone that we are monitoring the situation carefully. We currently don't see any location patterns or clusters in public locations.

"The most important thing is we all must do our bit. I know that people are desperate to have a holiday. But as soon as you hit the beach, please don't undo all our good work.

"We should not forget how awful the situation was for many of our residents earlier this year.

"More than 152 local people lost their lives and hundreds of others became seriously ill, with many still feeling the impact today. Coronavirus is still lethal. Lives are still at risk.

"Don't be selfish. Don't take unnecessary risks. If you do go on holiday – remember Covid19 is still at large, in some cases more so, in other countries."

Safety measures to follow on holiday

Residents are reminded to follow the safety measures in place when they go on holiday. This will include:

1. Checking on the local guidance regarding face coverings – in some countries face masks are compulsory in all indoor and outdoor public spaces
2. Checking on the local social distancing measures – countries have different distance guidance in place
3. Making sure you quarantine for two weeks if there is no agreed air bridge – this includes France and Spain.

The council said: "In addition, residents have been asked to remember what to do if they feel unwell when they return. You MUST stay at home and self-isolate, while you wait for a test.

"It is very important that we continue to follow government advice, so:

• Limit contact with other people outside your household
• Keep your distance from people not in your household (2 metres apart where possible)
• Wash your hands regularly
• Wear a face covering when on public transport and in shops

Where you can get tested for coronavirus in Richmond