The mayor of Llanidloes has told residents that “it’s a time to think about others” after the town faced a surge in coronavirus cases in recent weeks.

In her Christmas message, cllr Janet Crisp urged people to consider how actions can have an effect on close family and friends during the festive period.

She said: “My Christmas message is that I wish everyone a Covid virus free Christmas. What better present could that be for this year.

“2020 has been a year none of us will forget and is sure to go into the history annuls. Thousands of people have been devastated by the death of a loved on, by job and business losses, and financial hardship bought on by Covid.

“Christmas this year will be very different for a lot of families and friends who are having to spend the festivities apart but remember for many many people this is the norm year in year out.

“Christmas is a time to give thanks and it goes without saying how much we owe to so many people in Llanidloes who have carried on working, volunteered and helped the community during this difficult time.

“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

“It’s also a time to think about others and as Llanidloes has been seriously hit by the virus in the last few weeks.

“Please, please give consideration to what you do and how it will affect those close to you, keep your distance, wear a mask and sanitise constantly.

“Enjoy the festive season but stay safe and well.

“The town council wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”

A mobile testing unit has been set up in Llanidloes since December 9 to respond to the local outbreak.

Last week, Llanidloes High School had to close early due to staff shortages, and 14 people at Maes-y-Wennol care home tested positive for the virus.

Latest Public Health Wales data show that during a seven-day period between December 5 and 11, there were 32 confirmed cases in the Llanidloes, Blaen Hafren and Llandinam area - the second highest number of cases in Powys, behind Ystradgynlais and Tawe Uchaf which has 55.