MORE than 500 people have tested positive for coronavirus across Dorset, according to the latest figures. 

Data from Public Health England shows that in the 24 hours leading up to 4pm on Saturday, January 23, 514 fresh cases have been recorded across both Dorset Council and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council areas. 

In the Dorset Council area, 173 people have tested positive for coronavirus. Since the beginning of the pandemic, 8,802 cases have been recorded in this area.

341 fresh cases have been recorded in the neighbouring BCP Council area, bringing the total number of cases in the area to 20,274.

The 514 new cases are an increase on the figures reported on Friday, January 22, after 608 positive tests were confirmed in Dorset.

The total number of coronavirus cases across the county now stands at 29,076. 

Fresh Government statistics reveal there have been 33,552 more cases reported today, with the overall UK figure now standing at more than 3.6 million.