A WARNING has been issued this afternoon that coronavirus cases have "significantly increased" in the Aberystwyth area - with people in their 20s the most likely to test positive.

The council today (Saturday) urged everyone in the Aberystwyth area to follow the coronavirus guidelines, to help slow the spread of the virus - as was achieved in Cardigan following the outbreak there.

A Ceredigion County Council spokesperson said: "Coronavirus cases have significantly increased in the Aberystwyth area over the last five days. The number of positive cases across the county on a daily basis has never been as high as it is now. It shows us how easily the virus can spread.

"The current rate in Ceredigion is 154.1 per 100,000 population (as of 4 December).

"Evidence has shown that when communities come together and follow the coronavirus guidelines, the rate and spread of the virus can be slowed. This was clear to see in the Cardigan area and we are now asking our residents in the Aberystwyth area to do the same.

"The most prominent age group at the moment to prove positive in the Aberystwyth area is amongst people in their 20s. There are examples where they have had several social contacts in different settings. These include contacts at work and then meeting different groups of people in social settings.

"We know it’s difficult to limit the number of people we see, but limiting your contacts is essential for keeping the number of people with the virus down and it’s how we will ultimately protect our loved ones."

The spokesperson added that the council "will always take the necessary steps to keep our residents safe" and will take "decisive action when required".

"Our Public Protection Officers are working with colleagues at Dyfed-Powys Police to ensure that businesses are complying with the regulations and have served several notices over the last few weeks where improvement is needed," they added.