CONCERNS have been raised in Uttlesford after a spike in coronavirus cases over the past week.

Public health experts in Essex are said to be keeping a close eye on the Uttlesford district, which neighbours Braintree, after the number of coronavirus cases in the area more than trebled in just a week.

A weekly update of the coronavirus case figures shows the rate of new coronavirus cases per 100,000 people as well as the total number of new cases recorded in the week.

In the week ending in Monday 31 August, Uttlesford recorded seven new coronavirus cases with the rate of new cases standing at 7.7.

However, in the week ending Monday 7 September, the district saw a huge spike, recording 23 new Covid-19 cases with the rate of new cases coming in at 25.2.

The figures, for the seven days to September 7, are based on tests carried out in laboratories - pillar one of the Government’s testing programme - and in the wider community - pillar two.

Scientists have said they are have been unable to find a source of the recent surge in coronavirus cases.

However, it is believed the virus is spreading through the Uttlesford community.

Residents are now being urged to strictly adhere to social distancing guidance.