Milton Keynes faces tier 2 lockdown as Covid infection rate increase becomes one of the highest in England

Councillor Pete Marland the continued rise in city cases across every age group is "extremely concerning" and has now shot up to 197 out of 100,000 people.

When the second lockdown began on November 5, MK's infection rate was just 108 per 100,000 of the population

"The increase is one of the greatest in the country," said Pete. "While other places in our region are starting to plateau or fall, we are not seeing that here. The number of people in hospital is also increasing."

He said these stats mean Milton Keynes could well be placed in tier 2 when the government makes it announcement about individual regions tomorrow (Thursday).

This means social mixing outside of households or support bubbles will not be allowed indoors. The rule of six will apply outdoors.

Although hospitality venues would be allowed to stay open until 11pm, with last orders at 10pm. But only those that serve substantial meals can operate and any pubs and bars that do not serve such meals will have to close.

Indoor entertainment venues, such as cinemas, casinos and bowling alleys, must also close.

Spectators will be allowed to watch sport in tier 2, with a maximum crowd capacity outdoors of 50 per cent of the capacity of the stadium or 2,000 people, whichever is smaller.

At indoor venues, the maximum capacity is 1,000.

Following the decision tomorrow, the tier rating will be reviewed every 14 days. So, if the MK infection rate dropped, there would still be time for restrictions to be eased by Christmas.

Peter said: "Our increasing infection rate means we are at risk of being placed into a tier that has more restrictions when lockdown ends. We need to act now to get that rate down to ensure we keep people safe, to protect our NHS and for our economy.

"Unless we get the rate down, I believe we will end up in tier 2."

He added: "Your actions over the next few days or weeks will make a difference. Stay home, take care, get the rate down.

"We are seeing new cases in every age group in Mk but biggest concentration is on people of working age. When more people have virus in community it raises the chances of it being passed on to older or vulnerable people.

"The main cause of transmission is simple - general contact with other people. It isn't about widespread flouting of the rules. Keep your distance from others and respect social distancing. It is essential that if you have symptoms you should isolate and get a test."