Richmond Council has urged residents to ensure they continue to follow safety precautions against Covid-19 during their holidays, following a rise in the number of cases reported locally.

In the past seven days, the testing rate in the borough has been the highest in London, with 1,153 being tested per 100,000 residents.

Over the past two weeks, case numbers have increased across London, as lockdown measures have relaxed.

Since August 2, Richmond has seen 44 new cases.

A council statement referencing the successful use of NHS Test and Trace suggested that some of the cases may have been linked to foreign travel.

Cllr Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said: “I know that people are concerned about the slight increase in local Covid19 cases. Richmond has always had a low base line, so even a small number of cases can result in alarm.

“However, I want to reassure everyone that we are monitoring the situation carefully. We currently don’t see any location patterns or clusters in public locations.

“The most important thing is we all must do our bit. I know that people are desperate to have a holiday. But as soon as you hit the beach, please don’t undo all our good work.

Richmond and Twickenham Times:

“We should not forget how awful the situation was for many of our residents earlier this year. More than 152 local people lost their lives and hundreds of others became seriously ill, with many still feeling the impact today. Coronavirus is still lethal. Lives are still at risk.

“Don’t be selfish. Don’t take unnecessary risks. If you do go on holiday – remember Covid19 is still at large, in some cases more so, in other countries.”

Residents are reminded when they do go on holiday, they must not forget to follow the safety measures in place. This will include:

1) Checking on the local guidance regarding face coverings – in some countries face masks are compulsory in all indoor and outdoor public spaces

2) Checking on the local social distancing measures – countries have different distance guidance in place

3) Making sure you quarantine for two weeks if there is no agreed air bridge – this includes France and Spain.

In addition, residents are asked to remember what to do if they feel unwell when they return. You MUST stay at home and self-isolate, while you wait for a test.

The council also issued the following precautions for residents to follow:

• Limit contact with other people outside your household

• Keep your distance from people not in your household (2 metres apart where possible)

• Wash your hands regularly

• Wear a face covering when on public transport and in shops

There are several ways you can get tested:

• Go online and book through the national testing website www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or call 119.

• Home test kits - delivered to your home and then collected by courier once completed. Please visit www.nhs.uk/ask-for-a-coronavirus-test for more information