THE possibility of the new Covid strain already being present in Barnsley cannot be ruled out, health bosses have warned.

A government update showed the details of the new variant of the virus and, although it seems to be concentrated around the South East and Wales, the town’s director of public health Julia Burrows has warned residents to remain vigilant during the festive period.

She said: “Although currently the new strain seems to be concentrated around the South East and in Wales, we can’t rule out that it isn’t already here in our borough.

“It is therefore crucial we keep working together and follow the key principles of ‘hands, face and space’.

“These measures are still the most effective way to help to stop transmission of the virus, including the new strain, and will help keep you and your family safe.”