The warning comes ahead of England’s ‘freedom day’ on 19 July, which will see the remaining coronavirus measures removed in the final stage of the lockdown roadmap. Covid-19 cases and deaths are expected to rise significantly once restrictions are removed, despite the protection offered by the successful vaccination campaign, with more than 52 per cent of the UK population now fully vaccinated. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will set out their own plans for easing restrictions, but experts are urging caution as freedoms are restored. Listed are the 13 areas of the UK which have the highest Covid-19 rates right now, based on the seven days up to 7 July. Images are for illustrative purposes.

9. North Tyneside
North Tyneside’s Covid-19 case rate is 722 and the area had 1,500 new cases. Photo: DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS

10. Midlothian
Midlothian’s Covid-19 case rate is 721 and the area had 1,500 new cases. Photo: PAUL ELLIS

11. Middlesborough
Middlesborough’s Covid-19 case rate is 700 and the area had 987 new cases. Photo: OLI SCARFF

12. Barnsley
Barnsley’s Covid-19 case rate is 681 and the area had 1,682 new cases. Photo: Ian Forsyth


