'Stick to travel restrictions' plea from East Lothian Council's depute leader

The county is currently in Level 2 restrictions while neighbouring Edinburgh and Midlothian Council are in the higher Level 3 category.

The most up to date statistics showed 104 positive Covid cases were recorded in East Lothian in the week up to December 7 – a rate of 99 cases per 100,000 people.

Hot spots identified by Public Health Scotland are mainly in the west of the county with parts of Musselburgh, Wallyford, Tranent, Prestonpans and Cockenzie reporting over the 100 cases per 100,000 people.

The only other area in the county in the ‘red’ zone is Haddington North where five cases were confirmed in the first week of December.

The rise has sparked concerns the county could move back to the higher Level 3 restrictions when the Scottish Government reviews the status next week.

Edinburgh, which remains in Level 3, recorded 85 cases per 100,000 during the week to December 7 and Midlothian, also in Level 3, recorded 86 cases.

Depute leader, councillor Norman Hampshire, urged residents to remember non essential travel into Level 3 areas from East Lothian is banned.

Mr Hampshire said: “While the move to Level 2 was welcome and reflected progress in tackling COVID-19, we have seen new cases being reported in East Lothian which is a matter of great concern.

“The arrival of a vaccine is welcome but the reality is that it will be some considerable time until we see the full effects of this in terms of getting back to a situation which starts to look and feel like ‘normal’.

“The restrictions are hugely frustrating for everyone and this situation has gone on far longer than anyone would have wanted.

“But we are determined not to undo the welcome progress that has been made and by everyone playing their part we can continue saving lives and protect our loved ones.

“If you live in East Lothian, please do not travel into a Level 3 area such as Edinburgh. There are some exemptions and more information is on the Scottish Government website. It’s also important to be aware of what you can and cannot do if meeting others socially.

“Continue to use the fantastic shops we have here in East Lothian – more of them are selling products online if you are not visiting the high street. Our ‘Stay Safe, Support Local, Love East Lothian’ campaign highlights that, whatever products or services you’re looking for, it’s likely you’ll find them here in East Lothian.”

After reports circulated on social media about revellers from Edinburgh travelling into East Lothian, councillor Hampshire reiterated the need for people to stay away.

He said: “East Lothian is well known for its fantastic hospitality but I’m afraid it’s not possible for people from Level 3 or 4 areas to visit us for non-essential purposes at this time.

“Visitors can be assured of a typically warm welcome at our friendly businesses and wonderful attractions – when it is safe to do so.

“Nobody wants to see the return of more severe restrictions in the event of increased virus prevalence. Please do the right thing – it is hugely important, to help ourselves and each other.”

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