Thirteen more weekend deaths brings Doncaster's Covid death toll to 521

Newly released NHS England figures show the new fatalities were recorded at Doncaster and Bassetlaw NHS Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust between Friday and this afternoon.

However, due to delays in recording and reporting, it doesn’t necessarily mean the deaths took place over the course of the weekend.

The fatalities are counted as having occured within 28 days of a positive test for Covid-19.

Meanwhile, on his weekly update on the coronavirus situation in Doncaster, Dr Rupert Suckling, Director of Public Health, said that while infection numbers were falling, the virus was still spreading in the town.

He said: “From December 5-11, our seven day infection rate was 192.4 per 100,000.

"This is very similar to previous weeks. In addition to this rate the government also consider the rates of infection in over 60s, the total number of people that are testing positive in Doncaster, as well as current and projected pressures on the NHS.

“Whilst these numbers have fallen and continue to be much lower than in recent weeks, it’s clear that the NHS is still under huge pressure and the virus continues to spread in communities, work places and schools.

“I know it’s difficult, particularly at this time of year, but we need to continue to follow all the guidance in place to help reduce our infection rates further. This starts with following the face, space and hands principles and self-isolating and booking a test immediately if you have any symptoms.”