"We're not going to sugarcoat this": Warning issued in Southampton

Council bosses in Southampton say the city's in a worse place now than at any other time in the pandemic.

They say infections are "very high" with hospital staff under "intense pressure".

More than 1,600 cases have been recorded in the city in the latest seven day stats.

In their weekly email update to Southampton residents, the city council said: "We aren’t going to sugar-coat this.

"Southampton is in a worse place now than at any other time in the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Infections are very high.

"Hospital staff are under intense pressure.

"197 people have now died in the city and many more will lose their lives before this is over.

"Many more who recover will suffer lasting effects from the illness.

"But there are still things you can do to help Keep Southampton Safe.

"Keep your contact with other households to an absolute minimum.

"And when you do need to go out, remember the basics - Hands, Face, Space.

"We know it’s tough, but there is hope as vaccines are rolled out at speed.

"Remember that no matter how it feels right now, this will be temporary.

"Stay at Home, Protect the NHS and Save Lives."