Cornwall asks people not to visit unless they take Covid test

HOLIDAYMAKERS planning a summer break to Cornwall have been urged not to come unless they take a coronavirus test amid a spike in cases across the county.

The Cornish tourist board has asked people not to visit unless they have pre-booked and are willing to test themselves extensively.

Chief executive of Visit Cornwall Malcolm Bell said visitors should aim to “treble their efforts as much as possible” with the hands, face, space guidance and try to remain outdoors.

Visitors have flocked to the area throughout the summer holidays which has seen a rise in infections.

Health agency data shows both Devon and Cornwall had 500 cases or more per 100,000 people in the seven days to August 18.

On Monday, health officials said they were investigating 4,700 cases of coronavirus which are suspected to be linked to the Boardmasters festival which took place nearly two weeks ago in Newquay.

The cases are spread across the country but around 800 are living in Cornwall, a council official confirmed.