MORE than 1,500 cases of the Delta Covid variant have been recorded in Dorset - with over 1,000 of these across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

Public Health England data shows that in the week to July 7, a total of 1,100 cases were seen across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole after cases jumped by 55 per cent in a week. 

The conurbation has the second highest number of Delta cases across the south west after Bristol which has 1,725.

Meanwhile, the Dorset Council area recorded 450 cases during the same period.

The previous week, 710 cases were seen across the BCP Council area with 301 in wider Dorset.

Public Health England said that the Delta variant currently accounts for approximately 99 per cent of cases that are sequenced across the UK.

The number of the Delta variant cases in the UK have risen by 54,268 since last week to a total of 216,249, representing a 32 per cent increase.

Dr Jenny Harries, Chief Executive of the UK Health Security Agency said: “The data continues to show that the sharp increase in cases that we are seeing is not being followed by a similar increase in hospitalisation and death. This is because two doses of the available vaccines offer a high level of protection against the Delta variant.

"Getting both jabs is the best way to ensure you and the people you love remain safe, so we once again urge everyone to come forward as soon as they are eligible.

“As we approach the planned end of restrictions, we must remain cautious and careful. Cases are rising across the country, and whilst the vaccines offer excellent protection, they do not offer 100% protection. Be sensible, and follow “hands, face, space, fresh air” at all times and make sure to get tested if required.”

Bath and North East Somerset - 344

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole - 1100

Bristol, City of - 1725

Cheltenham - 360

Cornwall - 953

Cotswold - 114

Dorset - 450

East Devon - 90

Exeter - 260

Forest of Dean - 97

Gloucester - 511

Mendip - 65

Mid Devon - 66

North Devon - 57

North Somerset - 351

Plymouth - 186

Sedgemoor - 109

Somerset West and Taunton - 101

South Gloucestershire - 600

South Hams - 43

South Somerset - 79

Stroud - 194

Swindon - 249

Teignbridge - 89

Tewkesbury - 314

Torbay - 89

Torridge - 55

West Devon - 17

Wiltshire - 715