A SURGE in coronavirus cases in the south-west of the county has caused significant concern in the area after more than 80 cases were confirmed in just a week.

Students in years 8-11 at Haydon Bridge High School will be taught remotely until Friday.

In a letter to parents, headteacher Darren Glover said: "Whilst the number of positive cases remains comparatively low within school, we are in a position where we have a number of staff members who are having to self-isolate because of being identified as close contacts through the Track and Trace app, reducing our staff to student ratio. Therefore years 8 - 11 have been asked to self-isolate as a precaution.

"Continued education is extremely important for our students, and for this reason those who are self-isolating are continuing to access their lessons virtually."

In addition, a number of employees at Plenmeller's bottle factory have tested positive for the virus.

Hexham Courant: The RPC Containers bottle factory at Plenmeller. Photo: Andrew Curtis © The RPC Containers bottle factory at Plenmeller. Photo: Andrew Curtis ©

In a statement, operator Berry said: "Berry has been notified that a number of employees have tested positive for COVID-19; typically reported as a result of exposure outside the workplace.

"Berry is liaising with Public Health England and has been operating in strict accordance with the Government’s Covid-19 protocols."

A company spokesman added: “The health and safety of our teams will always be our first priority. Throughout the pandemic we have followed the direction of relevant authorities to ensure proper measures are in place to best protect our employees while at our facility."

The wards' councillors - Haltwhistle's Coun. Ian Hutchinson and Haydon and Hadrian's Coun. Alan Sharp - both appealed to residents to follow the rules.

Hexham Courant: County councillors Alan Sharp and Ian Hutchinson.County councillors Alan Sharp and Ian Hutchinson.

Coun. Hutchinson said: "It's very frightening. Nobody knows what has caused it.

"I would encourage people to stay safe, and if they feel they have symptoms to call the helpline on 119 and book a test.

"If you have to isolate, please do - and the rest of your family - and don't be complacent."

Coun. Sharp added: ""I'm concerned because we haven't had many cases and now we're the highest in the county.

"For anyone showing symptoms, it's important to go and get a test as soon as possible.

"People must adhere to the Government restrictions coming up to Christmas - we don't want more rules over the festive period."