Covid cases in Biddulph and the Moorlands have tumbled despite the recent removal of restrictions - but local health bosses have warned that the pandemic is not over.

The latest local data, from 23rd July, records a seven-day rate of 420.6 Covid cases per 100,000 population in the Moorlands.

This represents a significant drop compared to just a few days previously on 19th July, when cases peaked at a rate of 585.2 Covid cases per 100,000 population.

The drop in cases comes despite the removal of almost all Coronavirus restrictions in England on 19th July, and represents the first weekly drop in cases since the end of May.

Cases in Staffordshire as a whole are even lower, with a seven-day rate of 387.2 cases per 100,000 population on July 23rd compared to 543.3 on July 19th.

In response to the drop in cases, local health bosses have said they are "cautiously optimistic" but have asked people to continue their efforts to reduce the spread of the virus.

The number of people being tested also recently fell, and Staffordshire's health chiefs say this may explain some of the reduction in cases.

Dr Richard Harling, Staffordshire County Council's Director for Health and Care, says there can be no relaxation around personal responsibility, testing and vaccination.

He said: "Cases appear to be falling, which suggests that things could be moving in the right direction. However, it's too early to be sure. There are still a lot of people being infected and hospitalisations are rising, albeit slowly. It remains as important as ever that everyone in Staffordshire continues taking sensible precautions to bring cases down."

Dr Johnny McMahon, Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet Support Member for Public Health and Integrated Care, added: "Thank you to everyone who is taking personal responsibility and doing the right thing for themselves, their family and friends, and their community. Please continue your efforts to limit the spread of the virus. Remember 'Hands, Face, Space, Fresh Air', keep testing, and get vaccinated as soon as you can.

"Maintain a degree of social distancing and, if you are meeting friends and family, meet outside rather than indoors where possible. Face coverings are important on public transport and in crowded places, and it is worth carrying a face covering with you as some businesses may require you to wear one.

"Get tested regularly, ideally twice a week, using lateral flow device kits that are easy to get hold of and quick to do. Take a PCR test if you display any symptoms of Covid.

"Everyone aged 18 and over should get both doses of the vaccine as quickly as possible. Every single vaccination makes our communities that little bit safer."