Preston is close to Greater Manchester and Blackburn with Darwen, where local lockdowns have also been imposedPreston has become the latest area in the north of England to face localised restrictions following a spike of coronavirus cases. A ban on households gathering in each other’s homes and gardens will be effective from midnight. The rate of new coronavirus cases in the city rose from 20.3 per 100,000 people to 33 in the seven days to August 3. The rules on social gatherings will continue in parts of the North West, West Yorkshire and Leicester after a review of all local restrictions. Matt Hancock, the health secretary, said: “The past week has been difficult for many people in Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire and East Lancashire, and I thank everyone in these areas for their patience and willingness to follow the rules.

Source: The Times August 07, 2020 15:56 UTC