THE number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in Thurrock has risen by ten in the latest figures released by Public Health England.

The total affected in the borough that have been tested and proved positive is now 217.

Across the UK 460,437 tests for coronavirus have now been carried out. 114,217 people tested positive up 5,526 since yesterday and there are 17,759 people in hospital in the UK, down from 18,711.

As of yesterday, 15,464 coronavirus-related deaths have been recorded across the country.

Today (Saturday, 18 April), Thurrock Council has issued a plea to the public not to remove barriers from play areas and to abide by the rules of the lockdown.

A social media statement from the authority says: "We have received reports that barriers, tape and padlocks have been removed from play equipment and people have been climbing into these areas.

"Please don't put the most vulnerable at risk as this could help spread the virus and possibly prolong restrictions."

The council have specifically targeted play equipment in their message but some open spaces have also been taped off in the borough, which appears slightly in contrast with a message from the government, also today.

Communities and Local Government Secretary, Robert Jenrick, says he has "made it clear" to councils that all parks must remain open after some closed their gates in recent weeks.

He said he knows the lockdown is a lot harder for those without a garden - "I've made it clear to councils that all parks must remain open" so people can safely enjoy fresh air and green space, he says.

But at the daily Downing Street press briefing, he also warned people must abide by social-distancing rules, and not congregate in the green spaces.