AS Northumberland is put under new localised lockdown restrictions, NHS Borders is advising people to only make necessary journeys into England.

From midnight tonight (September 17), nearly two million residents in north-east England will be banned from meeting people from other households, with pubs ordered to impose a 10pm curfew.

Now Borders residents are being urged to apply caution and follow public health advice.

NHS Borders' associate director of public health, Keith Allan, said: “We are continuing to see increased numbers of cases of COVID-19 across the UK, with our neighbouring local authority area of Northumberland now facing restrictions on people mixing, and curfews in pubs.

“As a result we recommend that people in the Borders should only be travelling to Northumberland for essential purposes such as school or work, and they should be extra vigilant."

Areas affected by the new measures include Northumberland, Newcastle, North and South Tyneside and Sunderland.

The move comes after similar restrictions were placed on Rhondda Cynon Taf in Wales on Wednesday.

Dr Allan added: “If you experience any of the COVID-19 symptoms – a fever, persistent cough or loss of taste or smell – you must self-isolate immediately and book a test for COVID-19.

“It remains of vital importance to follow up to date advice and guidance in relation to infection prevention and control. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to follow the FACTS:

  • Face coverings in enclosed spaces
  • Avoid crowded places
  • Clean hands and surfaces regularly
  • Two metre distancing; and
  • Self-isolate and book a test if you have symptoms

“Whilst you wait for your test all of your household members must self-isolate. This is really important to prevent potential spread of this highly contagious virus.”

For more information on COVID-19 and to book a test – if you are displaying symptoms – visit NHS Inform's website.