COVID-19 infections continue to fall across the majority of areas in and around Bromsgrove.

Bromsgrove Sidemoor saw the biggest drop in cases over the seven days up to January 19, with cases there plummeting by 44.7 per cent, with 57 cases recorded.

The area also recorded the lowest infection rate per 100,000 people, with an infection rate of 785.0.

The second largest fall in cases was recorded in Stoke Heath, Finstall and Bentley where cases dropped by 20.9 per cent to 102.

Cases also dropped in Hagley, Barnt Green and Lickey Hills, Rubery West, Bromsgrove Charford, Catshill and Marlbrook and Lickey End.

However a rise in the number of cases was recorded in a handful of areas, according to the latest Public Health England data.

Dodford, Belbroughton and Romsley saw the biggest rise, with the number of cases jumping by 48.1 per cent, taking the number of new infections there to 114.

The increase in cases in the area also saw the infection rate rise, topping the table for Bromsgrove with a rate of 1,508.1 cases per 100,000.

Rises were also recorded in Bromsgrove Stoney Hill, Alvechurch, Hopwood and Holt End and Bromsgrove Central and Sanders Park.

The rises here were smaller, coming in at 13.2 per cent, 2.7 per cent and 3.9 per cent respectively.

The figures come as all Plan B restrictions are set to be lifted in England on January 27.

Face masks will no longer be compulsory in indoor public spaces, such as shops.

Alongside the easing of mask rules, working from home guidance has ended and Covid passes, such as proof vaccination or a recent negative test, will no longer be mandatory for entry to nightclubs and other large venues.

The legal requirement to isolate if you test positive for Covid-19 remains in place.