Hopes of staying in Tier 2 fade as seven deaths from Covid are recorded today in Milton Keynes

Though the number of new cases is high, it is a decrease from yesterday's all-time high figure of 214.

Over the weekend there 278 new cases in MK, and the run of high figures has led to council leader Peter Marland admitting it is a "strong possibility" that the government will decide to place the city under the highest Tier 3 restrictions tomorrow (Wednesday).

There have now been 5,311 Covid cases and 235 Covid-linked deaths in MK since the pandemic began.

Over the past week alone, Covid infections throughout the borough have risen by more than 50 per cent. The hospital has more Covid patients than its ever had before and is working "flat out" to cope, said Pete.

"The increase in Milton Keynes is greater than most other local authorities. The number of cases, the speed it is spreading and the number of people in hospital is concerning. There is a strong possibility we will go into Tier 3," he said.

Nationally there were 18,450 new positive tests recorded today. Over the past week the UK has seen 3,160 Covid deaths, bringing the total to 76,287 since the pandemic began.

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