A statement from Councillor Heather Scott

Councillor Heather Scott, leader of Darlington Borough Council, said: “We have received confirmation that Darlington, along with the wider Tees Valley/North East, will be placed into the tier three ‘very high’ local restrictions at the end of the national lockdown period.

“Although we are disappointed that Darlington must face the toughest restrictions, in particular the inevitable impact it will have on our hospitality businesses, we recognise that it is vitally important that we do what is necessary to drive down infection rates in the town.

“Our residents and businesses owners have shown great resilience and fortitude this year and I would urge everyone to stay focused and continue to do the right thing, particularly as we approach Christmas and we hope to celebrate as best we can with our closest family members.

“The data shows that in a large proportion of cases recorded in Darlington, the virus has been passed from one family member to another in the same household and then often on to another extended family household due to visits. Please – protect the people you love and think twice before mixing indoors.

“There is no denying that these are difficult times - as a council we will continue to do all that we can to support our business owners and to work with the Government to ensure that we receive as much support as possible to see us through.”