An area of the Maldon district is now reporting Covid cases above the national average. 

Southminster, Bradwell and Dengie Peninsula was added to the Government's Covid cases map last week.

There have been nine cases in the seven days to June 1. 

This is above the national average and gives the area a rolling infection rate of 98 cases per 100,000 people. 

It also means the area is now shaded a darker coloured green. 

Areas are only shown on the government's hotpot map when there are three or more new cases reported at any one time. 

All areas have recorded less than three cases in the last seven days and the virus is classes as "suppressed" in these areas. 

They are not recorded on the Covid hotspots map any longer.

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The latest figures come days after Ormison Rivers Academy in Burnham revealed a number of its pupils are now self-isolating following an outbreak of Covid-19.

As a result, they are reported to have told parents to get their children tested for the virus urgently.

A number of Year 11 students at the school are also understood to be self-isolating with the school also in consolation with Public Heath England.

A spokesman for the academy said: “Following a small number of students in Year 11 testing positive for Covid-19 and in close consultation with Public Health England, all Year 11 students are now self-isolating.

“All students are kept in separate bubbles during the day at the academy but a number of Year 11 students gathered in the park after their final day of the academic year.

"As a result, the year group is now self-isolating and taking PCR tests as a precautionary measure.

“The academy is safe to remain open to all other students, as a result of the numerous stringent safety measures we have put in place.

"Our absolute priority continues to be the health, safety and wellbeing of our whole school community and we will carry on working closely with Public Health England to ensure we are taking all the necessary precautions.”

It is not know if this outbreak is linked to the rise in cases in Southminster, Bradwell and Dengie Peninsula.