AFTER a spike in the number of Covid-19 cases in Ludlow the number of infections have fallen again.

But the message for the town and the county is that there remains a risk and it is much too early to assume that the improvements will continue.

A public health chief has warned that the next few weeks could be some of the most important as they will show if cases continue to fall.

Restrictions will start to be eased gradually but the earliest date for the complete removal of them is June 21 say the Government.

Whilst the number of cases in Ludlow and across the county have remained low compared with some other parts of the country there was a spike in February.

“The fact that the number of cases is reducing week-by-week is really encouraging,” said Rachel Robinson, the Shropshire Director of Public Health.

“But as the weather improves and the evenings get lighter, people may be tempted to let their guard down and take unnecessary risks.

“I know everyone has been asked to live under restrictions for almost a year now and it is becoming more and more difficult.

“I am thankful for the sacrifices everyone has made up to this point. However, we do need one last big push if we want to be in a position where all restrictions are lifted by the earliest 21 June 2021 as per the Government’s roadmap.

“These next few weeks are probably the most important we have had locally during this pandemic.

“Everything we are doing now does make a difference, so please, try not to become complacent about things such as social distancing, do keep your space, and wear face coverings.”

Experts wait to see what happens when schools return and restrictions are eased. Spring and the warmer weather make the spread of the virus more difficult but even if there is a further increase in the number of cases it is hoped the vaccination programme will keep hospital admissions and deaths down.