Twenty-six Coronavirus cases have been recorded in Bath and North East Somerset as of Monday 24th August, an increase since the end of last week, but B&NES Council are reassuring the public that although this number has gone up, there is no cause for any significant action to be taken - yet.

Dr Bruce Laurence, Director of Public Health at Bath & North East Somerset Council has said: “It is not yet at a level where we have to consider a local lockdown, but it is absolutely essential that we start to get a grip on the situation right now.

“We are talking to businesses in the area to support them in managing the risks of COVID-19 as effectively as they can so that they can remain open while keeping customers safe.” 

Riverside Cleaning Contractors, a local company in the Midsomer Norton area have offered their misting treatment services for free in the evenings to help Midsomer Norton businesses through the local coronavirus outbreak.

The cleaning business are using a maintenance misting treatment with chemicals that have a 99.9% germ kill rate for airborne and surface germs, including COVID-19.

Ryan Church, owner of the business, told The Journal: “Norton is my home and I want to see as many businesses as possible survive this global situation.

“I have started offering these treatments for free recently to businesses I think are most at risk. I am not asking for payment, but asking them to make donations to local charities. 

“The company is fully booked solidly for a month in advance during our normal work so these additional hours are no strings attached kindness to help others. I am very much practising what we were all preaching earlier this year, lets all be kind!”

Bath and North East Somerset Council released that they and Somerset County Council are working closely with PHE and other partners to manage the increase of local cases. They have stated: “As a precautionary action this includes supporting licensed premises to ensure that guidelines are followed on social distancing, test and trace and all other preventative measures.”

They advised: “If you have symptoms, self-isolate and get tested at nhs.uk or call 119. Follow this link for more details of how to book and for the details of the Paulton MTU: https://newsroom.bathnes.gov.uk/news/extended-timescale-temporary-coronavirus-mobile-testing-unit-paulton

“If you visit pubs, cafes and restaurants you must complete the test and trace form. If you have two or more possible cases and are concerned and want advice, please contact PHE’s Health Protection Team on 0300 303 8162.

“If a business in B&NES has one or more confirmed cases, please inform [email protected] who can offer advice and support.

“All the latest NHS information on coronavirus can be found at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

“For all updates on coronavirus from Bath & North East Somerset Council, visit www.bathnes.gov.uk/coronavirus and for Somerset County Council visit https://www.somerset.gov.uk/coronavirus/“

We will keep you updated on the latest coronavirus news in our area.

A temporary COVID-19 mobile testing unit was set up at Paulton Rovers Football Club. The council have said residents booked to attend the unit should arrive by car and not use public transport.

As of today, the temporary COVID-19 mobile testing unit in Paulton has been extended for a second time due to the rise in cases. It will now be at the site until 3rd September following a rise in confirmed cases in the Somer Valley.

Those wishing to book an appointment should visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested or dial 119.Councillor Rob Appleyard, cabinet member for Adult Services, Safeguarding and Public Health, said: “In light of the concerning rise in the number of confirmed cases in the Somer Valley, I am very pleased we are able to support residents with further access to local testing should they need it. There is no cause for serious concern but it’s essential we all play our part in getting control of the situation locally. This means we all have to take responsibility for correct social distancing, hygiene, wearing face coverings as appropriate, and self-isolating and getting a test as soon as any symptoms start. It also means isolating for a full 14 days if you are identified as a contact of a case or have returned from a high-risk area abroad.“If anyone is concerned that they have any of the symptoms of coronavirus I would urge them to book themselves in for a test. Please remember you need to drive to the unit to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.”