There has been another death to Covid-19 in Richmond, the council leader said.

In his weekly video address, Cllr Gareth Roberts said people should not wait until Monday for the new rules on gatherings to kick in, and should instead meet in groups no larger than six immediately.

Mr Roberts also gave an update on the number of cases and tests that have been carried out.

He said: "Over the last seven days we have identified a further 31 cases of the virus in the borough, bringing the total number of cases identified since March to 685.

"Unfortunately, over the last seven days we have attributed one further death to to the virus in the borough, bringing our total number of deaths identified since February to 153.

"Over the last seven days we have tested 2,188 people and have had a positive return rate of 2.1% on those tests.

"You will be aware that from Monday, September 14 - that is this coming Monday - the government is imposing new restrictions on congregations of people.

"They don't want to see more than six people gathering at any one time either indoors or outdoors.

"There are of course exemptions, and these can be found on the council's website.

"We're expecting this weekend to be warm and sunny, so we are expecting more people to gather.

"The restrictions come into force on Monday. However, there is no reason why you should wait until Monday, so if you can avoid unnecessary gatherings, please do so.

"And please keep following the rules. Make sure you are wearing a face mask or covering on public transport and in shops and supermarkets, washing your hands wherever possible and maintaining social distancing.

"We need to follow these rules to beat the virus and avoid a second lockdown.

"So please do take these rules seriously. Thank you."

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