A PLAN has been prepared to respond to any spike in coronavirus cases in Tenbury.

Worcestershire’s Covid-19 public health team has developed a local plan in case of a flare up as the county adjusts for the further easing of lockdown including the opening of pubs and restaurants.

It comes at a time when there have been a number of upsurges in cases of the virus throughout the country.

Experts hope that by discovering virus spikes early local controls will make it not necessary to reintroduce a nationwide lockdown.

The plan has been welcomed by West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin, who has been in regular contact with public health officials throughout the crisis.

The Department for Health has agreed data sharing at local postcode level with the Worcestershire team. The action plan has been funded with £2.7 million from the department.

“The official figures have shown a very low number of recent cases in West Worcestershire and in my weekly briefings with the resilience forum team, it has been clear that local people have done a great job helping to prevent wider spread of the virus,” said Mrs Baldwin, whose West Worcestershire constituency includes Tenbury.

“With the lockdown easing further this weekend, it’s important that local teams can identify and isolate anyone who has tested positive for Covid-19 and their contacts.

“As we open more businesses, including hospitality venues and local attractions, it is important that people maintain a safe distance at all times, and wear a mask when in confined spaces, including when using public transport.

“No one wants to see virus cases increase in Worcestershire and by following the guidelines, we hope that Covid-19 will remain under control.”