Mendip now has some of the highest coronavirus rates in the UK, thought to be directly due to the failure of PCR tests from a clinic.

The latest figures show 99 cases in Frome North West (figures from October 13) up 67.8 per cent. The rate per 100,000 is 1,107.3.

The increase has been blamed on infected people getting negative PCRs from a lab in Wolverhampton.

You can check the latest local figures HERE: by putting in your post code.

Around 43,000 people in England and Wales may have been wrongly told their Covid-19 test was negative because of errors at a private laboratory.

Testing at the Wolverhampton lab, run by Immensa Health Clinic Ltd, was suspended following an investigation by NHS Test and Trace.

The head of the UK Health Security Agency has ordered an investigation into why it took a month to identify the failures.

Those still infectious are being asked to take another Covid test.

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Concerns were raised when people had positive lateral flow tests, but negative follow-up PCR results from the lab between 8 September and 12 October - most affected live in the South West of England.

Between 13 October and 19 October 2021, 1,067 people had a confirmed positive test result across Mendip - an increase of 92.9% compared to the previous seven days.

On October 19 the UK reported its highest number of coronavirus deaths since March 9 : 223 were recorded within 28 days of a positive test for the virus.

At Frome College it was understood that 11 teachers are either off with coronavirus or isolating with suspected coronavirus. However the Principal sent a letter on October 20 to parents and carers which stated:

"Going forward into next term, positive cases of COVID-19 are dropping within college, but we will maintain a cautious approach and remain in 'bubbles' for at least the first week of next term.

• All students will be required to wear face coverings in lessons and communal areas
• Students who are exempt from wearing face coverings should collect an exemption

card from student services

• All students and staff are asked to complete a LFD every 3-5 days
• Break and lunch times will be in bubbles. Entry and exit times will be