ALL schools in the Cardigan area are to close with immediate effect following concerns over a ‘significant number’ of positive Covid-19 cases.

The doors to Ysgol Uwchradd Aberteifi, Ysgol Gynradd Aberteifi, Ysgol Gynradd Penparc, Ysgol Gynradd Aberporth, Ysgol Gynradd T.Llew Jones, Ysgol Gynradd Llechryd and Ysgol Gynradd Cenarth will be closed from tomorrow until Monday, 7 December, it has been confirmed this evening.Neighbouring Pembrokeshire Council also decided to close five schools near the Ceredigion border that share services - such as transport - with schools across the border.Ysgol Preseli, Ysgol y Frenni, Ysgol Llandugdog, Ysgol Eglwyswrw and Ysgol Cilgerran are all also closed from Monday, 23 November.

In a letter to parents seen by the Cambrian News, Chief Education Officer at Ceredigion County Council, Meinir Ebbsworth said: “We are extremely concerned about the spread of coronavirus in the Cardigan area.

“A significant number of recent positive cases has resulted in a very high number of people being classed as contacts to a positive case.

“Many of these contacts now have coronavirus symptoms and we are awaiting the test results.

“Schools have worked tirelessly to keep your children safe.

“These cases are linked to the actions of the community and not to the actions of local schools.

“There is overwhelming evidence that the speed and spread of the virus in the Cardigan area means that immediate action is needed.”

Ceredigion Council officials met with Public Health Wales and Hywel Dda Health Board on Sunday to discuss the issue and decided to close schools for two weeks.

Ms Ebbsworth added in a letter to parents: “We have not taken this decision lightly and this action is in response to the need to act decisively.

“This is a rapidly evolving situation and we must act to protect our school communities and indeed the whole of the Cardigan area.

“We ask you kindly to be especially cautious and vigilant in the coming weeks.

“If your child, or any member of your household is feeling unwell, you must stay at home.

“As a council, we are continuing our discussions with key partners on any further actions needed to ensure that this significant community transmission is controlled.”Ceredigion County Council confirmed this evening that it has met with partner agencies and that it is thought the increase of cases in Cardigan is down to a ‘number of super spreader events’ that have led to this situation.Along with school closures, Ceredigion Council also confirmed that Flying Start Nurseries in Cardigan and Aberporth will also be closed until Monday, 7 December.Cardigan Library will be closed until Monday, 7 December 2020.Anyone who has booked the click and collect service will be contacted by the Library Service. For any enquires please telephone 01970 633717.A council spokesperson said: “These decisions have not been taken lightly but there is a need to act quickly to avoid further spread of the virus within our communities.“We ask that during these 14 days, that social contact is kept to a minimum.“All confirmed contacts of positive cases must remain at home for 14 days to reduce the possible spread of the virus to family, friends and the wider community.“The parents of all these pupils have been contacted by the School and will also be supported by Ceredigion Contact Tracing Team.“Anyone with symptoms, no matter how small, must follow self-isolation guidance and arrange a test immediately, only leaving home to get tested. No one should go to work or leave the house if they have any symptoms. You can apply for a test on https://gov.wales/apply-coronavirus-covid-19-test or by phoning 119.Residents in Cardigan and surrounding area are being asked to strictly follow the guidelines so that we can keep each other safe:- Keep a 2m social distance from each other when out and about;- Wash your hands regularly;- Limit your social contact;- Work from home wherever possible;- Wear a face mask in indoor public places, shops and on public transport.