THE number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Somerset has seen its sharpest rise for some time.

A total of 17 new cases were reported in the 24 hours to 5pm yesterday (Wednesday).

Public Health England statistics show there have now been 640 confirmed cases in the area covered by the county council - up from yesterday's figure of 623.

There was an increase in documented cases in all four Somerset districts in the latest figures.

In Somerset West and Taunton, there have been 233 cases (an increase of five); 173 in South Somerset (up four); 172 in Sedgemoor (up seven); and 62 in Mendip (up one).