A lax approach to Covid-19 precautions is causing a rise in local infection rates according to the director of public health for Warwickshire.

Dr Shade Agboola has warned residents that the threat of Covid-19 and the extra pressure of flu and sickness bugs are all set to add to the pressures on the NHS.

And with Christmas fast approaching, she has called on residents to start tackling case numbers now, so everyone can continue to meet loved ones safely.

Covid-19 cases have been on the rise in Warwickshire in recent weeks, with infection rates in Kenilworth above the national average.

Dr Agboola said rising infection rates is in part due to people "disengaging with the messaging" about the continued threat of Covid-19.

"With the winter months and celebrations such as Christmas fast approaching, now is the time to make a concerted effort to reduce the rise in cases," she said.

"We all want to spend time with the ones we love and enjoy time with our friends and we absolutely can do this. We just need to do it safely.

"We all have a role to play in reducing Covid-19 cases across the county, not just for our safety but for the safety of our loved ones, friends and the wider community.

"If we stop taking precautions, we will continue to see cases rise across Warwickshire, which will result in more hospitalisations and sadly more deaths."