NEW figures have revealed which areas in Bolton have seen new cases of coronavirus.

Data published by Public Health England has been used by the Office for National Statistics to create a map of each reported case of covid-19 across the UK.

The figures, which show confirmed cases of coronavirus for people who were tested between July 27 and August 2, show each case by Middle Super Output Area, geographical areas of around 7,200 people.

A total of 56 cases have been reported in the borough during that time, although areas with one or two confirmed cases will not have any data shown.

The statistics show Astley Bridge and Waters Meeting had the most new cases in Bolton, with eight people testing positive.

Neighbouring Halliwell and Brownlow Fold, and Hall I' th' Wood also reported new cases, with five and three residents of the respective areas testing positive for the virus.

Little Hulton reported the second highest number of new cases after six residents tested positive, with Heaton and Deane, Lever Edge, Kearsley and Stoneclough, and Westhoughton West tying in the fourth-highest spot with four new cases.

Bolton Council’s director of public health, Dr Helen Lowey, said: “We are closely monitoring the numbers of cases across the town and we are aware of these figures.

“We know that our rate is rising but this is also partly because the number of people accessing tests has increased in the last week - we were anticipating finding more cases as a result of this.

“Everyone has a role to play in helping to stop the spread of the virus and we are asking people to please keep taking this virus seriously.

“We are in this for the long haul – people really need to keep following the guidance, and remain as vigilant as possible."

Breightmet South and Darcy Lever, Springfield and Great Lever, Rumworth North, Harper Green, Westhoughton East, and Daisy Hill have all reported three new cases during this period.

Dr Lowey added: “Please don’t meet with people you don’t live with inside your home, at a public venue or in your garden.

“Keep washing your hands, and maintaining social distancing of two metres – or one metre plus with face coverings. Face coverings are one of the most important ways to help stop the spread of the virus.

“You should also immediately self-isolate if you or anyone in your household has symptoms.”