A RESPECTED Barrow GP has urged residents not to take the easing of lockdown rules as freedom to neglect government guidance.

From Monday, groups of up to six people will be allowed to meet outdoors in England – provided strict social distancing guidelines are followed.

The announcement comes after Public Health bosses and local authorities revealed they were launching an investigation into the high Covid-19 death rates in Barrow.

The Furness town reportedly has the highest per capita number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in the country, and has drawn the attention of several national media outlets as a result.

A number of factors have been raised in an effort to explain the figures - including population density and relative deprivation levels within the town, as well as the role of BAE Systems.

Dr Geoff Jolliffe, Clinical Chair of Morecambe Bay Clinical Commissioning Group praised the easing of lockdown rules but said it is 'vital' the public sticks to current guidance.

He said: “We know that being unable to see family and friends during lockdown has impacted on everyone’s mental health.

"So, it is wonderful that we can now meet more people outdoors.

"This small step to ease the lockdown measures has only been possible because of the public’s patience and hard work in helping to contain the virus so far.

“While it’s great news that we can now meet more people outdoors, it’s vital that we still stick to the current guidance and that we all maintain social distancing.

"Washing your hands before and after you meet other people is the simplest way to protect yourself and others.

"We must all still stay alert in order to save lives.”

The government has issued a number of measures to reduce the risk of spreading Covid-19 to your loved ones: Stay two metres apart from people outside of your household at all times, do not spend time inside other people’s homes, other than to access their garden or use the toilet, continue to wash your hands thoroughly and frequently, disinfect bathrooms, door handles and other surfaces, avoid seeing people from too many households in quick succession and where possible, walk, cycle or drive to see your loved ones, rather than using public transport.

Simon Fell, MP for Barrow and Furness, welcomed the news as a 'positive move'.

"People have been incredibly patient and respectful of each other and the rules, and we’re seeing that pay off now," he said.

"Thank you to everyone who has made a sacrifice to get us to this point.

"It’s not normality yet, but it’s a good step on the way. What is important is to keep following the advice, and socially distancing. If we keep that up, we’ll keep heading out of this very long tunnel."

The report investigating the suspected high Coronavirus infection rate in Barrow report is likely to inform the implementation of a mooted 'local lockdown' in Barrow, according to Cumbria's director for public health, Colin Cox.

Aaron Cummins, CEO of UHMBT, and Barrow MP Simon Fell both argue the high numbers for the area may be down in part to UHMBT testing early.

PHE confirmed the report would be published in a matter of weeks.