THE latest set of figures for the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Thurrock jumped by its biggest margin for some time today.

The figure increased by seven, making a total of 322.

Somewhat bizarrely though, the population of Thurrock has increased in 24 hours to 174,341 according to the government's latest statistics - which yesterday gave the population as 172,525.

There is no change in the stated number of coronavirus-related deaths in the borough, which remains at 107. A new set of figures were promised today (20 May).

Nationally the death toll remains debatable. 35,704 deaths have been recorded of people who have a positive test result for Covid-19, while 41,020 recently issued death certificates mention Covid-19.

And the Office For national Statistics say that the number of deaths it has recorded over and above the usual number for this time of year is 54,437!

There have been more than 248,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK

Meanwhile in the borough, the lead councillor for health, Cllr Allen Mayes, has spoken on the issue of mental health and the impact of coronavirus.

Echoing the words of council leader Rob Gledhill who has also spoken about being kind, , Cllr Mayes said: "This week is national Mental Health Week and this year, more than most, many of us have had many good reasons to reflect on our mental health and well-being.

'Kindness is the theme'

"As we have come together to fight coronavirus the role most of us have been called upon to play – stay alert, control the virus and save lives – is one which has required significant changes in how we live, where we go, what we do and who we interact face-to-face with. I doubt there is a single person reading this who at some point has not felt stress or anxiety caused by this situation.

"But at the same time I am also sure that there is not one of us who has not been touched by the kindness we have seen in each other through this.

"There is the community spirit which sees us coming together to clap key workers every Thursday, the army of volunteers who have stepped up to help and even the small gestures like a neighbour waving from across the road or a call from a family member or friend to make sure you're feeling OK.

"And kindness is the theme of Mental Health Awareness Week and it could not be more fitting. Our kindness to one another is the very thing that will help not only defeat this virus but emerge from this as stronger communities who look out for one another.

"So please remember no matter how anxious you might feel help is out there and that one small act of kindness can make all the difference to someone who could be struggling."

How Thurrock Nub News has been reporting coronavirus issues across Thurrock since the pandemic began. A summary of stories