The boss of the local Public Health body has today warned about the danger of a local lockdown if people ignore the rules on "hands-face-space" and social gatherings.

Dr Bruce Laurence, B&NES director of Public Health, said: "We are treading a fine line and there is a real danger that we could see Bath and North East Somerset follow other areas which are now in the higher alert levels. So our message today is clear – it is only through each and every one of us taking action to prevent further spread of this disease that we can hope to stay outside the local lockdown measures.

"We should all be prudent and cautious, but if we follow guidance, we need not be fearful. That means where people are applying good rules, it is safe to go out for essential activities like shopping in all parts of Bath and North East Somerset.

Currently Bath & North East Somerset is on medium alert level and we must:

- Follow all the rules, including on hand-washing, face coverings, social distancing, and gatherings. Remember- Hands: Face: Space.

- If we have symptoms, self-isolate and book a test on119 or online at nhs.uk/coronavirus

- Follow instructions from Test and Trace

- The council will be reinforcing these messages through posters at bus stops, on Park and Ride Buses, online and in a letter to residents.

Dr Laurence added: "We are at the medium level of alert and there is no strict rule about households mixing beyond the rule of six, but if we want to remain out of lockdown, we should all limit non-essential mixing between households as much as possible, and certainly avoid crowded places where people are not being careful about their behaviour.

"Please ask yourself, whenever you are mixing with others or going out, is this necessary? Is this safe? Is the benefit worth the risk to me and to others?

"Finally, as we approach Halloween and Bonfire night please avoid Trick or Treating or anything else that puts you, or others at risk."

Councillor Dine Romero, council leader, added: "I want to reassure residents that where there are cases our public health team is working with Public Health England and those affected, to ensure the measures are put in place to control the virus. But we are in real danger of lockdown if people don't follow the rules"

"Our Hub on 0800 247 0050 can help with food and medication and provide support if you are vulnerable, isolated, lonely or anxious"