Leader of Leicestershire County Council Nick Rushton says the new national lockdown will be a worrying time for local residents.

But he has urged people to follow the rules which will come into place on Thursday - so that the Covid-19 infection rate can be driven down as soon as possible.

Cllr Rushton said: "We're now working through what the national announcement means.

"We want to assess the full impact on services which are vital to residents.

"I know this is a worrying time for people, and supporting our residents through these continuing times of difficulty remains our absolute priority.

"I'm confident we will get through this, but it is down to all of us to follow the rules and drive down infection rates across the county."

The County Council says that Information on the new national restrictions, including what they mean for working from home and business closures, why they are being introduced and the financial support available can be found HERE.