OVER 20 new cases of Covid-19 have been recorded in Ceredigion today, according to official statistics.

22 new cases in total have been confirmed in Ceredigion today as the death toll from the virus rose again with 41 suspected coronavirus deaths recorded, taking the Wales-wide total to 2,446.

In the week between 16 November and Sunday, 22 November, 43 new cases of the virus were recorded in the Cardigan and Aberporth region, giving the area in infection rate of 484.3 cases per 100,000 population - the standard measurement for infection across the UK.

Over the time period, 24 new cases were confirmed in neighbouring Cilgerran and Crymych in the north of Pembrokeshire.

Elsewhere, reported cases up to Sunday, 22 November were also high in the Llanybydder and Llanfihangel ar Arth area with 20 cases last week.

Carmarthenshire as a whole today (Wednesday) has recorded 71 new cases.

Pembrokeshire has today recorded 15 new cases while Powys has recorded 11.

Gwynedd by contrast has recorded three new cases today.

As a result of the surge in cases in Cardigan, a mobile testing site has been set up in the town and today, Ceredigion County Council confirmed that the safe zone scheme, which bans cars from the town centre to allow greater social distancing, is to be reintroduced from Thursday.

It has been announced however that coronavirus rules are to be relaxed for five days between 23 and 27 December so up to three families can enjoy Christmas together.

Giving the daily statement, Dr Robin Howe, Incident Director for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak response at Public Health Wales, said: “Public Health Wales notes the decision of the four nations of the UK regarding the relaxation of restrictions over the Christmas period, enabling up to three households to meet.

“The festive period is important for people across Wales who want to be with loved ones during the holidays, particularly after a very difficult year, but we would remind everyone that we must each continue to take personal responsibility to limit the spread of the virus and protect our loved ones, particularly if they are vulnerable or extremely vulnerable.

“For many, this will mean that it isn’t possible to celebrate Christmas in the way you normally would.”