Covid-19 cases in Dorset are beginning to fall, but the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) area now has the UK's 20th highest infection rate.

Public Health Dorset reports there are 1,175 cases in the Dorset Council area, compared to 1,261 on January 15, and 3,138 in the BCP Council area, compared to 3,524.

In the Dorset Council area, the case rate per 100,000 of the population is 310.4, compared to 333.2 on January 15, and 793.8 in the BCP area, compared to 891.4.

There are currently 552 Covid-19 patients in Dorset hospitals, compared to 452 on January 15, and according to gov.uk, 290 people have died within 28 days of a positive test in Dorset.

A spokesman for Public Health Dorset said: "Covid infection rates, particularly across the BCP Council area, are not falling as quickly as we would have liked. We have started to see case rates level off and decrease marginally, but until we see a significant reduction in cases, our hospital admissions are likely to remain high.

"The BCP Council area now has the 20th highest infection rate - 793.8 per 100,000 - of all local authorities across the UK. This is still much higher than the average rates for England - 484 - and the south west - 331.5.

"Hospital admissions have continued to increase. NHS services in Dorset are experiencing unprecedented and extreme levels of demand. There are now more than four times as many Covid patients in Dorset hospitals than at the peak of the first wave in April. Sadly, we are also seeing Covid-related deaths continue to rise.

"The single most important thing you can do to help is stay at home as much as possible.

"Book a test and self-isolate with your household if you develop any symptoms."