Kirklees health chief's warning as infection rate rises and new rule of six comes into force

The Government is making social gatherings of more than six people illegal in a bid to reduce and prevent COVID-19 infections.

Schools, workplaces, COVID-secure weddings, funerals, and organised team sports will be exempt.

The majority of Kirklees is now in line with the Government’s national restrictions after being lifted from additional local restrictions.

However, Dewsbury and Batley remain in the local restrictions introduced by Government on July 29.

Rachel Spencer-Henshall, Strategic Director for Public at Kirklees Council, said: “I urge everyone across Kirklees to follow this latest national restriction and do not socialise in groups of more than six.

“The majority of Kirklees was lifted from local restrictions on September 2, meaning people can socialise with people from other household again. This is still the case, but the Government is just now asking that you do not do this in groups larger than six.

“For people in Batley and Dewsbury, the local restrictions are still in place for the time being, meaning you still cannot socialise with people from other households unless they are part of your support bubble. We understand how difficult this continues to be but thank you for the efforts you are going to. We’re hopeful the Government will lift these local restrictions soon if we see infection rates come down.

“We know it’s difficult to know what all the latest restrictions are at both a national and local level but you can stay up to date on our website.

“Please follow the Government’s latest guidance and keep social gatherings to no more than six and continue to stay safe so we can prevent the spread of the virus.”