THE rising number of covid-19 cases is presenting a recurring threat to local health services and as a result visitors to local hospitals are now being asked to wear masks again.

Today (Thursday, 7 July) a spokesperson for Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, which runs local hospitals including Basildon Hospital, said: "Due to the rising number of covid cases, we are temporarily reintroducing the wearing of face masks across the Trust.

"From Friday, 8 July anyone coming to our hospitals will need to wear a mask.

"We'd like to thank people for their ongoing support and understanding."