New arrivals to Leeds should ‘consider self isolating’, says council

It follows the discovery of a new strain of Covid-19 in London, which has in turn led to new, even stricter lockdown rules in parts of the south east.

These led to alarming pictures posted to social media over the weekend of swathes of passengers in London train stations waiting to board services to Leeds and the north of England.

A spokesperson for Leeds City Council said: “We know that staying safe over the festive season brings with it some new and unique challenges and we would urge everyone to follow the latest advice to ensure they protect themselves and their loved ones from the virus over Christmas.

“People should also take extra care if they think they might possibly have been in contact with the virus or if you’ve recently arrived in Leeds from elsewhere and should consider whether they might need to self-isolate.”

The authority is urging everyone in the city to look at the “consequences of their actions” as the next couple of days is likely to see the city’s shopping districts swamped with Christmas shoppers.

Among the guidance it has given out is to continue two metre social distancing, as well as not meeting family or friends indoors unless they are in one’s support bubble.

Leeds City Council leader Judith Blake (Lab) said: “Protecting the health and wellbeing of residents in the region is a priority, and we are extremely grateful to businesses for putting Covid-secure arrangements in place – including many extending their opening hours – to ensure people can shop safely.

“We all need to continue working together and follow the restrictions that are in place for our safety and wellbeing.

“It is tempting to let our guard down and spend time with friends and family over Christmas and New Year, however we urge people to comply with the restrictions so we can reduce the risk of another peak in the New Year.”