Rotherham removed from Government's Covid-19 area of concern watchlist

ROTHERHAM has now been removed from the Government's Covid-19 area of concern watchlist.

Minster of State for Care, MP Helen Whately, confirmed the move in a letter, adding: "Although the progression of the virus will continue to be monitored closely – as in all local areas – I hope you will be extremely pleased with the progress that has been made."

Rotherham MP Sarah Champion shared the letter on social media.

She said: "Whilst we all still need to strictly follow the guidelines to prevent an increase in infections, I’m sure you are as relieved as I am to hear this news."

Public Health England's weekly Covid-19 surveillance report published on Friday listed 29 areas across the country which had the highest rate of new infections per 100,000 people between July 24 to 30. Rotherham was not included on the list. 

More up-to-date figures released by NHS Digital showing the infection rate per 100,000 people between August 2 to 8 in Rotherham was 14.0, putting them 23rd in the UK.

Nearby Barnsley had a rate of 13.1 and Sheffield was at 10.6. 

Oldham in Greater Manchester tops the NHS Digital list for that week with an infection rate of 84.5.