A PRIMARY school in Bewdley has closed after a member of staff tested positive for Covid-19.

A staff member from the senior leadership team at St Anne's CE Primary School in Wyre Hill has tested positive for coronavirus, Worcestershire's Public Health team confirmed.

Due to several teaching staff being identified as close contacts, St Anne's has taken the decision to close the whole school.

Dr Kathryn Cobain, director of Public Health for Worcestershire, said: “An individual from the senior leadership team at St Anne’s Primary School in Bewdley has tested positive for Covid-19.

“This case was quickly identified, and the school is being supported by Public Health.

"As a number of fellow leadership team members and teaching staff have been identified as close contacts, the school has taken the decision to close.

“Those identified as contacts are now also self-isolating for 14 days in line with guidance and all children are being supported to continue their learning through remote access.”

Dr Cobain warned residents yesterday to continue taking the virus seriously after the county recorded its worst weekend death toll since April.

She said: “The increase in case numbers and deaths across the county is a real concern. It is also a stark reminder that coronavirus remains in our communities.

"It is imperative that we all continue to take the virus seriously, following the Hand, Face, Space and social distancing guidelines at all times.

"The guidelines apply to everyone and following them is the most effective way to stop the spread of the virus.

"This includes staying the full two metres apart from other people. By doing all we can and avoiding social contact with others, we are saving lives. It is that simple.

"This high level of social distancing is vital to keep everyone safe and to protect the most vulnerable in our communities.”

Dr Cobain was speaking after 12 new coronavirus-related deaths were recorded across the weekend of November 14 and 15.

This is the worst weekend figure experienced since April, though the number of deaths is still some way off the 30 recorded on April 18 and 19.

The weeks and months since then have seen consistently low death rates. In recent weeks, there has been either zero or one death reported most days.