SEVERAL isolated outbreaks are to blame for the rise in Covid-19 cases in Worthing that has seen it soar to the highest infection rate in the South East.

A "few" isolated cases in several locations across the borough are the cause of a recent rise in infections, Adur and Worthing Councils said.

As part of the latest national figures, the town has the highest rate of infection in the South East, with an R rate of 109 cases per 100,000 people for the week ending February 26.

According to the council, the isolated outbreaks have been identified and acted upon, in order to prevent further spread.

A statement on Facebook read: "We're aware that the latest national Covid figures show a small increase in cases in Worthing.

"These relate to a few isolated outbreaks in a small number of locations across the borough.

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"These have been identified and acted upon in order to contain further spread - in part due to the individuals involved getting tested and following isolation guidance.

"Given rates are recorded on a per 100.000 basis, we know that in smaller populations like Worthing, a small number of extra cases can lead to dramatic changes in rates."

The local authority was quick to remind that the long term trend of infection in the town is "downwards" and that rates will fluctuate over time.

It comes after it was reported that the coastal town of Felpham had gained the attention of government officials for being an anomaly.

The town's rise in cases was revealed in Friday's Downing Street press conference.

It is not said to be an area of concern, but there is unusual activity in the data for the village.

Dr Michael Head, a senior research fellow at the University of Southampton said outbreaks will become more common once restrictions are eased.

Speaking to Sky News, he said: "We are going to see outbreaks crop up across the country. As cases get lower, those outbreaks will get more noticeable."