COVID-19 cases in Shropshire have jumped by more than 80 per cent in the last week, figures show.

During the seven-day period between July 9 to 15, 1,037 new cases reported – an increase of 82.5 per cent on the previous week.

Meanwhile the seven-day infection rate for Shropshire was 320.9 per 100,000.

There were also 11 hospital beds occupied by Covid-19 patients, although zero Covid-19-related deaths in local hospitals were recorded.

Rachel Robinson, Shropshire Council's director of public health, urged residents to remain cautious.

"The number of cases in Shropshire continues to rise sharply and hospitalisations are slowly increasing too," she said.

"With most legal restrictions being lifted by the government at a time when the virus is spreading so quickly in our communities, I urge everyone to remain cautious.

"I still strongly advise the use of face coverings, particularly in crowded, busy places or where ventilation may be poor, and to keep a safe social distance where possible.

"Now restrictions have been ended, let's not forget about good hand hygiene: these are simple and effective things we can all do to stop the spread of the virus.

"Testing through Lateral Flow Tests for people without symptoms, or a more reliable PCR test for those with symptoms, are still necessary measures.

"If you do get a positive PCR test you must self-isolate immediately.

"There are also still lots of Shropshire residents eligible for the vaccine, whether it be a second dose or both doses.

"Please book online, call 119 or visit a walk-in clinic to get yours as soon as possible.

"You are less likely to become seriously ill if you do contract Covid-19."

Meanwhile, Councillor Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council's Cabinet member for public health, added: "It is really encouraging to see so many people still wearing face coverings and behaving sensibly while out and about in Shropshire, even after legal restrictions have ended.

"The efforts of Shropshire's residents have been tremendous so far and it's important that we recognise this is not over yet.

"Please keep doing what you can to keep Shropshire safe."