Covid infections increasing at 'critical' rate in Milton Keynes, says council leader.

Cllr Pete Marland is urging people to stick to all the Tier 4 rules to prevent local cases escalating even further.

"The rate at which Covid-19 is being transmitted and the fact that we do not know much about the new strain of Covid means the best thing you can do is stay home,"

"The Covid-19 infection rate and the rate at which it is spreading in Milton Keynes has become critical... It is clear that the situation is very serious," he added.

Speaking of the rigid Tier 4 restrictions, Pete said :"I know this change has been sudden and many people will feel shocked, hurt, angry or confused or simply may feel they've had enough. However, now more than ever, we need to dig deep into the reserves of strength that make us such a unique place.

"We can and will find the fortitude and resilience to pull us through this most difficult of times. We must now follow our new restrictions so we can get the rate down and save lives. Now, more than ever, your actions matter.

"The 22nd of December is this year's darkest day. I know it feels like that right now. It's hard. However we will come through this and together as a city we will emerge stronger. Lighter, better days lie ahead.

Anybody who feels their mental health is being affected amid the Covid crisis can find help via the council's website here.

Pete, who has a young son, added: "Christmas is not cancelled, but it will be very different this year. The good news is that I've been informed that Father Christmas has been given a 12-hour exemption from the travel ban on December 25th and his delivery vehicle and magic are Covid secure."