Commenting on the First Minister’s statement advising against non-essential travel to very high or high alert areas under England’s new three tier system, Gabe Docherty, director of public health, NHS Lanarkshire, said: “While we are aware Blackpool is a popular holiday destination amongst residents of Lanarkshire and many may have made plans to travel to the town over the coming weeks, we would urge caution in travel plans at this time. In particular some may be planning to travel to England to watch the Celtic versus Rangers match in pubs and bars this weekend, something we would strongly advise against, urging you to avoid spreading the virus.

“The data released by the Scottish Government today shows a high number of Covid-19 cases in residents of Lanarkshire who have recently travelled between Scotland and Blackpool and the number of Scottish visitors who visited Blackpool shortly before their illnesses substantially exceeds those having visited any other place in the UK.

“Over the past month, since 14 September, when Blackpool was first noted on a case, there have been 286 cases in Scotland whose records note recent travel to Blackpool. Many of these cases have travelled using group transport, especially coach, but also private transport, and many are of middle and older ages with increased risk of suffering from very severe COVID-19 illness.

“Those falling into a group that is at an increased risk of more severe illness, should in particular consider carefully where and how they travel.

“These cases highlight the risk associated with travelling to all areas with high rates of infection. People in Lanarkshire should not be travelling to or from the health board areas under local restrictions except for essential reasons. If you have to travel, follow all local guidance and restrictions, both where you live and where you are travelling to.

“It is vital the public to comply with government advice and remember FACTS at all times; Face coverings, Avoid crowded places, Clean hands regularly, Two metre distance and self-isolate and book a test if you have symptoms. We know this is a really challenging time but we can only suppress this virus with the public’s help.”