OLDHAM'S coronavirus infection rate continues to rise with concerns raised over the easing of rules as Delta cases spread.

The number of people per 100,000 in the borough who produced a positive Covid-19 test in the seven days up to July 7 was 620.

That is the highest rate in Greater Manchester and one of the largest in England.

A total of 593 cases were discovered over the weekend.

Oldham Council is warning people to be wary of the virus with the relaxing of restrictions due to happen on Monday.

Director of public health at the council, Katrina Stephens, said: “Oldham, along with other areas of the country, is seeing a rapid increase in the number of new infections, associated with the spread of the Delta variant.

“As restrictions ease and people are mixing more, this provides more opportunity for the virus to spread more easily from person to person."

Ms Stephens added: “From the beginning of the pandemic, people across Oldham have followed the rules and shown amazing community spirit.

"We’ve looked after each other, especially our most vulnerable and it’s important that we continue to do this.

“Wearing face coverings when we’re indoors in public places (such as public transport), getting tested regularly and taking up the vaccination are all ways we can help to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

“We have a number of walk-in vaccination clinics where residents can call in and get their jab, so there’s no need to book an appointment.

"We also have locations where you can get tested or pick up a testing kit.

"We would encourage people to continue to follow the guidance on our website even after restrictions ease."