'We can't afford to relax' – Burnley stays in Tier 3 but council warns cases are still rising

Council leader Mark Townsend said an increase in the number of positive cases across the borough was a real cause for concern

"We can't afford to relax and let our guard drop," he said. "Our borough has recently seen an increasing number of positive cases and that is a cause for real concern.

"I want to thank everyone who has helped in the battle against Covid by following the Government guidelines and protecting themselves, their loved ones and others from the virus.

"I know Christmas is upon us and it's a time when we all want to get together and enjoy each other's company.

"Sadly, we need to stay vigilant and keep on top of Covid, and not let it get on top of us. I encourage residents to follow the guidelines and not meet with extra households during Christmas.

"It's a tough ask but I know there's a strong community spirit out there and I also know the vast majority of people are staying safe and doing the right thing. If we look after ourselves and others, continue to wear a mask and keep social distancing, and we follow the other health guidelines, we will beat this virus and 2021 will be a much better year."

In light of the increasing number of cases, the two testing stations in Burnley will be offering tests to asymptomatic people – those not showing any Covid symptoms.

These are the opening times over the Christmas period:

- Centenary Way (opposite Burnley Bus station) 8am – 8pm (apart from December 25th, December 28th and January 1st when it is 9am – 3pm)

- King Street, Whitham Car Park. December 24th, 29th, 30th, 31st and January 1st to 4th – 10am – 2-30pm.

Tests can be booked online through www.gov.uk.

The system will ask if you have symptoms and if you click "no" it will ask a number of questions until it asks "why are you asking for a test?" and whether your local authority has asked you to get tested, at which point you should tick "yes" and an appointment will be made for you to be tested.