Mid-Devon’s MPs have said they are disappointed that the county hasn’t moved into Tier 1, but that the data on infections wouldn’t have supported a relaxing of restrictions.

The county as a whole will remain in Tier 2 for the time being, the government has confirmed today, deciding that because of our circumstances, including case numbers, their demographic, pressure on NHS services.

While cases in the county had been falling during the second lockdown, numbers have begun to rise in recent days, with the infection rate for Devon now back to 86.1 per 100,000, although it varies significantly across the county with East Devon, Exeter and North Devon over the 100 per 100,000 mark, while the South Hams are at 29.9.

MPs across the county have said that while many people may be disappointed, but that the data does not support dropping down into Tier 1.

Anne Marie Morris, MP for Newton Abbot, said: ‘I am disappointed but not surprised by the lack of tier movement for Teignbridge and other areas in South Devon. It is vital that the rollout of the vaccine programme in Devon is a successful, hopefully leading us to being able to see an end in sight for these restrictions.

‘Alongside this, businesses, especially in the hospitality sector, require further Government support.’

Mel Stride, MP for Central Devon, said: “’Unfortunately the data on infections does support Devon staying in Tier 2.

‘Key now is for us all to follow the guidance carefully especially over the Christmas period while the government continues to roll out the vaccination program as quickly as possible.’