Stick with rules plea as Falkirk and Stirling in different COVID restrictions levels

The changes, which come into force at 6:00pm on Friday, come complete with a travel ban enforced by law.

The plea comes as business, trade and essential delivery services across all three areas are closely linked.

This includes the provision of education at St Modan’s High School, which serves all three Council areas.

Political leaders have appealed to people not to travel between the areas in a bid to avoid spreading the virus.

Dr Graham Foster, director of public health, NHS Forth Valley, said: “If we can all follow the rules for just three weeks, especially by staying two metres apart even at work, and by not visiting each other’s homes, it will give us the best chance of having fewer restrictions in December and a happier Christmas.”

The joint appeal was endorsed by the three local authorities which now find themselves dealing with different levels of restrictions - Level 4 will run until Friday, December 11.

Councillor Scott Farmer, Stirling Council Leader, said: “Action had to be taken now if we’re to have any hope of saving Christmas.

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“Our daily case number is more than three times the WHO recommendation for virus containment, we are witnessing significant outbreaks in care homes, schools and local businesses in the heart of our communities and this is leading to community transfer and, tragically, death.

“We have already suffered too many tragic losses this year and we must now all work together to follow the stricter Level 4 rules and prevent any more.”

His appeal was not to travel between the council areas unless absolutely essential.

Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, leader of Falkirk Council said: “We still need to pay attention to the guidance being provided.

“Remaining at tier three in Falkirk is to be welcomed, but there is absolutely no room for complacency and everyone should keep in mind that we have to continue to work hard to reduce infection levels by following advice on travel, distancing and hygiene.

If we can follow this guidance then hopefully we can help reduce the infection rates as well as help to protect our NHS workers.”

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