There have been 2,001 new cases of Covid recorded this week in Cumbria.

This is a five per cent increase to the previous week with cases rising most amongst younger age groups.

The vaccine rollout for 12-15 year olds is set to begin.

Colin Cox, Cumbria’s director of public health, said: "As cases among younger age groups rise, it’s important to remember that although the chances of young people falling ill or being hospitalised as a result of COVID-19 is low, it’s not impossible and the virus may then spread to more vulnerable family members.

"You may have heard the government’s announcement this week that 12–15-year-olds will now be offered the vaccine and I welcome this news.

"With this added protection for younger people I hope we can avoid as much unnecessary disruption to our children’s education this winter as we can.

"Schools will begin circulating vaccine consent forms to parents from today and I urge parents to sign and return their forms as soon as possible so the vaccination rollout can begin swiftly."

For the sixth week in a row, Allerdale recorded the greatest number of new cases with 501.

It overtook Barrow in Furness with the highest rates of new cases.

Rates in all Cumbrian districts except South Lakeland were above the regional average.

The 5-9 age group also experienced the greatest numerical and proportional increase in new cases with a 56% increase.

Covid 19 hospital admissions increased by 16 from the previous week.

Over 80% of young adults aged 16 plus have now received their first and second dose.

Mr Cox added: "Furthermore, despite the vaccine rollout amongst this age group, it remains increasingly important students are tested regularly where possible to protect themselves, their families and school staff.

"LFT kits are free and readily available either from your local pharmacist or by ordering them from the government website."