At the time of writing (10am on March 12), Shepton Mallet and the rest of Somerset are still officially coronavirus free, despite a government table saying two people in the county had the virus.

A Somerset County Council spokesperson has confirmed to Shepton Mallet Nub News that no one has tested positive for Covid-19, or coronavirus, in the county.

As for the two people mentioned in the government figures, one was tested and has proved to be negative, and the other was someone from Somerset who contracted the virus on holiday, out of the county, and they have now recovered.

The spokesperson has also reaffirmed that in terms of any school closures, the county as a whole will be guided by the government and will follow their recommendations closely.

They said: "This is an evolving situation and schools are encouraged to follow government guidance which is available here.

"The Department for Education (DfE) has also set up a dedicated helpline for schools, parents or young people.

"Available Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm, contact 0800 046 8687 or email [email protected]."