THE borough is among the latest areas to face new restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of coronavirus.

Wigan borough, along with other areas including Stockport and Blackpool, are to have local lockdowns enforced from Saturday.

The borough has seen a steady increase in cases over recent days, with more than 300 in the past week.

Wigan borough saw 66 cases confirmed for the 24 hours up to 9am on Thursday, September 23.

There had been 39 cases on Wednesday and 53 the day before.

Monday saw 61 cases and Sunday's figure of 54, while there were 59 new cases found last Saturday.

From Saturday, Wigan and Stockport, which had been exempt from a lockdown imposed on Greater Manchester, will now face the same restrictions as the rest of the region.

This means residents in these areas must not socialise with other people outside of their own households or support bubble in private homes and gardens.

Locals are also advised only to use public transport for essential purposes, such as travelling to school or work, and avoid attending amateur sporting events.

The ban already exists in the city of Manchester, Merseyside, parts of Cheshire, Trafford, Bury, Tameside, Rochdale, Salford, Bolton, Oldham, Preston, Blackburn with Darwen and Pendle - with people also advised to avoid mixing in public venues too.

Wigan Council said: "Following a rise in cases in Greater Manchester the government has again announced local restrictions for Wigan Borough. These restrictions are to help stop the spread and keep residents safe."