THE coronavirus infection rate is higher in the North-East than any other part of England as positive cases continue to increase. 

Academic modelling, lead by the University of Cambridge and Publich Health England, found the 'R' figure in the region, as well as Yorkshire, stands at around 0.8, which suggests an average of ten infected people are passing the virus on to eight others.

The research is based on data up until May 10.

Hexham Courant: Data shows the average number of infection reporidyuction rates in England, with the North East and Yorkshire top. Photo Credit: University of Cambridge and Public Health England.Data shows the average number of infection reporidyuction rates in England, with the North East and Yorkshire top. Photo Credit: University of Cambridge and Public Health England.

Public Health England confirmed as of Friday, May 16, there have been 908 positive cases of Covid-19 in Northumberland.

The toal number of deaths at Northumbria Healthcare Trust hospitals has increased to 176, an increase of 3 from Saturday.