There has been a significant rise in the number of new coronavirus cases registered in Bolton as the town prepares to come out of Greater Manchester's lockdown restrictions.
On Friday the government announced that the borough would be exempt from the region's restrictions because the infection rate had remained low.
At that time the figures, based on data from August 24, showed a total of 17.4 cases for every 100,000 people in Bolton.
But, updated statistics from Public Health England (PHE) up to Thursday August 27 show the infection rate number rose to 34.8.
On Friday August 28 that figure rose to 44.2 cases for every 100,000 people, with 40 new infections confirmed by lab tests, according to the PHE data.
In comparison up to August 27, Oldham has the highest numbers, with 53.6 infections per 100,000 people, and will be subject to tougher restrictions. Whereas in Stockport, the rate is just 9.2.
Despite these changes, the lockdown rules will end on Wednesday, September 2, when Bolton, Trafford and Stockport will join previously released Wigan in following the same rules as the rest of the country.
It means people will soon be able to visit friends and family members in different households and more businesses will be able to reopen in the town.
According to the rules, Bolton residents will be allowed to:
- Socialise in groups of up to two households indoors.
- Stay overnight at somebody else’s home - but must try to social distance.
- Book close contact services such as facials and brow or eyelash treatments.
- Visit bowling alleys, roller rinks, soft play centres and casinos.
