PARTS of the county could be facing tougher restrictions as new figures show coronavirus cases are rising rapidly.

Bromsgrove now has an infection rate of 80 per 100,000 people - the highest in Worcestershire.

Public Health bosses are urging residents in Bromsgrove to follow social distancing rules to help reduce the rapidly rising infection rate.

Many of the cases have been in those under the age of 50 and are not related to any known situation, according to Public Health.

Dr. Kathryn Cobain, director of Public Health in Worcestershire, said the rise was the clearest indication that some are not following the rules.

“I am extremely concerned to see the infection rate taking off as it has in Bromsgrove," she said. "This is the clearest indication yet, that some people are not following the rules. The rate is significantly high enough, to potentially see the district added to the Government’s watch list which could result in further measures being introduced. We don’t want to see that happen.

“I am now appealing to each and every person in Bromsgrove, now is the time to take this seriously. We must do everything we can to stop the virus spreading. It really isn’t that hard to think about how you are going about your daily lives, keeping your distance from others, reducing who you mix with, wearing a face covering and washing your hands regularly.

“These simple measures will make a difference because the virus only moves around when we mix and socialise. By sticking to the rules, you can reduce your risk and the risk of those you love.”

Cllr Karen May, leader of Bromsgrove District Council, said: “I cannot stress enough how vitally important it is for us to follow the rules. We must do this now or face tougher restrictions in the future. The figures clearly show that Covid-19 is in our community and spreading fast. When other areas have successfully followed the rules, their infection rate has gone down.

“Come on Bromsgrove, we can do this if we act quickly and together now."