BURY'S coronavirus rate is now three times the national average as the number of cases continues to spiral upwards.

The borough is currently seeing the highest number cases among residents for several months.

Some 175 new cases were recorded in the seven days to 12 September, meaning the infection rate has shot up from 59.4 per 100,000 to 92.1, according to the latest figures released by Bury Council.

Councillor Andrea Simpson, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said the latest data showed just how rapidly the virus can spread.

“No one wants the Government to put us back into lockdown, but we’re firmly in the ‘red’ zone where that is a very real possibility," she added.

"We all need to do our best to stop transmission of the virus by following the rules.”

Although the majority of new cases are still occurring in young people a 'worrying new trend' of positive test results is emerging among people from the older working age group.

The largest number of new cases were recorded in Prestwich (43) and Bury West which includes Radcliffe.

But cases continue to be spread across all five neighbourhood areas of the borough.

Cllr Simpson continued: “The ‘Rule of 6’ came into effect across England this week, but remember in Bury we are already under tougher restrictions, and these supersede the national rules.

“Wash your hands, wear a face mask if you are not medically exempt where required, and keep your distance from others – that’s the only way we will get these rates down.”