Grampian coronavirus cases more than double in a day

The number of coronavirus cases in Grampian has more than doubled in a day.

The region had 122 cases recorded yesterday, compared with 49 the previous day.

Data suggests that is the highest daily figure since the start of the pandemic.

NHS Grampian has now released a statement, highlighting that a number of the cases relate to a factory in Portlethen.

A spokesperson said: "We are investigating 78 detected cases of Covid-19 associated with the Kepak McIntosh Donald plant in Portlethen.

"An Incident Management Team, with representation from the NHS, the plant, environmental health and Food Standards Scotland, has been set up.

"Following a small number of confirmed cases associated with the plant - and after discussions with management there - we offered asymptomatic testing to all employees on Monday. More than 200 staff took up the offer.

"These results are now being processed and account for much of the increase in our case numbers in Grampian. They are not the only reason behind today's increase in case numbers - we continue to see other clusters of cases and the virus continues to circulate in the community.

"We are working closely with Kepak McIntosh Donald and a number of other partners to ensure all the correct control measures are in place. There is no evidence at this time to suggest this cluster has spread beyond those working at the plant. Given the large number of people who were tested it is likely further cases could be confirmed in the coming day.

"As noted above, Covid-19 is circulating in the community. Everyone should remember the FACTS guidance and play their part in limiting it's spread as much as possible."

Original 106 reporter Shona Duthie asked First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Professor Jason Leitch, the national clinical director, if they could explain the numbers at their daily briefing earlier.

We also asked Ms Sturgeon about her talks with other UK leaders around Christmas restrictions - which were announced last night.

You can see their responses to both questions in our video above.