THE number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in St Helens has increased sharply.

Latest figures from Public Health England released last night show that 16 people have now tested positive for COVID-19.

That figure is double the total that was announced the previous day.

In Knowsley, there have nine been cases and in Liverpool 57.

Yesterday, St Helens MPs urged the public to adhere to government lockdown measures.

On Monday, Boris Johnson announced a range of severe restrictions after crowds of people flocked to parks and public spaces over the weekend.

The Prime Minister asked the public to go out to buy basic necessities such as food and medicine “as infrequently as possible” and to travel to and from work when it is “absolutely necessary”.

Government advice 

Stay at home

Only go outside for food, health reasons or work (where this absolutely cannot be done from home)

Stay 2 metres (6ft) away from other people

Wash your hands as soon as you get home

You can spread the virus even if you don’t have symptoms.