The first case of coronavirus has now been confirmed in Shropshire as the illness continues to move closer to mid Wales.

Following the announcements of a case in Herefordshire yesterday, and with six cases now having been confirmed in Wales, there has now been the first instance of the virus in Shropshire.

The news came in a meeting of the Telford Clinical Commissioning Group this afternoon.

Sam Tilley, the CCG's corporate affairs director, said: "The individual has recently travelled back to England from Italy".

So far 145 tests have been carried out in the county.

Powys has been preparing for the likely arrival of the disease in recent days, with question marks over whether events in the county could be postponed, and Powys Council making contingency plans to hold meetings via Skype.

The latest case was in Shropshire Council's area, rather than neighbouring Telford & Wrekin Council, by a member of the public who was tested in the community and is now self-isolating.

Rachel Robinson, director of public health for Shropshire Council, said: “I’d like to reassure people that the risk to the general public remains low and Shropshire Council is working with health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of Shropshire are protected.

“Good hygiene is the best prevention and there are some simple steps you can take to protect you and your family by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly and if you cough, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue."