Milton Keynes neighbours Luton back on 'area of concern' list just two days after PM praises town's efforts

On Wednesday at Prime Minister's Question Time, leader of the opposition Sir Keir Starmer asked why of all 48 Covid-19 areas of concern, only Luton had succeeded in lifting itself out of special measures.

In response, Boris Johnson said: "The reason I think for the success of Luton is that local people pulled together to depress the virus, to follow the guidance and that is the way forward for the entire country."

Luton's director of Public Health, Gerry Taylor said: "This was a fantastic national recognition of the effort and sacrifice the town’s communities and businesses have made in order to protect each other.

"At this point in time, however, we are seeing another worrying rise in cases and the government has once again classified Luton as an area of concern.

"For the time being there will be no additional local guidelines, but it is likely that the government will need to put some in place if we are unable to get our numbers down."

In Milton Keynes new infections remain low and stable.

As of yesterday (October 2), Milton Keynes has recorded eight new cases, with a total of 1,178 people now diagnosed with the deadly virus, according to the latest figures from Public Health England.

Buckinghamshire has recorded 19 more cases, with a total of 2,336.

There were two deaths recorded in the county.