Headlines: Worrying rise of COVID-19 rates in Liverpool, Omicron cases doubling

💉 Mayor of Liverpool Joanne Anderson and Director of Public Health Matt Ashton have urged people to get vaccinated ahead of an expected wave of COVID-19 cases.

Virus numbers in Liverpool have already risen 10 per cent in the city over the last seven days, and Omicron cases are doubling every 2-3 days in the North West. 

Director of Public Health, Matt Ashton, said: “Demand for vaccination is very high at the moment so please be patient, but do book an appointment on the national booking system for your vaccine or your booster.

“In addition, carry on testing at least twice a week or in advance of going to any big events or social gathering, and if you’re a close contact of a positive case, then please do daily testing to make sure you haven’t got COVID-19.”

💐 Due to the rainy and windy weather, the family of Ava White have asked the council to remove the floral tributes left in her memory so that they are not damaged.

The 12-year-old died after being stabbed in the city centre on Thursday, 25 November.

A 14-year-old boy has been charged with her murder.

🚮 Residents in Liverpool are being reminded that a revised bin collection service will be in place over the Christmas and New Year period.

Stickers have been placed on all bins, and residents can also check their collection dates by entering their address on the council website.

Green bin collections are suspended until 27 February. The city council will publicise a list of Christmas Tree recycling sites after the festive season.