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Leeds Council has praised its 'heroic' frontline workers battling through the coronavirus pandemic in the city as the number of cases continues to rise.

Council leader Judith Blake described Covid-19 as 'one of the most serious' challenges the city has ever faced.

There are now 52 cases in Leeds as of Thursday morning.

A statement issued by the council said: "With Leeds now on an upward curve of confirmed COVID-19 cases, Councillor Judith Blake has also urged everyone to save lives by following the government instructions on staying at home and social distancing.

Coronavirus in Leeds: The council has praised heroic frontline workers

-> For the latest coronavirus news and guidance in Leeds, go to www.facebook.com/groups/leedscoronavirus"Councillor Blake’s words follow a period in which the council has responded at pace to the crisis, with the following key actions being just some of the many taken by the council so far:

· Launched a volunteering programme with Voluntary Action Leeds so people can sign up to help support residents most in need.

· Launched a recruitment drive for social care workers to ensure care providers can better support the most vulnerable residents.

· Made council-managed car parks and on street parking bays in Leeds free to use, with priority given to NHS and Social Work staff, and other key workers.

· Put a call out for 500 senior people to mentor entrepreneurs and leaders from the public, private and voluntary sectors who are dealing with the impact of COVID-19.

· Kept schools open for the children of key workers and is providing 14,000 meals for children who are normally receive free school meals.

· Launched a new hotline for Leeds residents unable to leave their home for groceries and essentials, and who don’t have family or friends who can help. People who call the helpline will be matched with volunteers who can help. The number is 0113 378 1877.

· Launched a dedicated webpage for help for anyone self-isolating, information on food banks, how to get involved in volunteering in local communities, tips on maintaining physical and mental health at home, as well as the latest updates on changes to normal council services. The webpage is https://www.leeds.gov.uk/coronavirus

· Launched an emergency food provision scheme for families and individuals who are experiencing difficulties in accessing food due to financial constraints, self-isolation or accessibility of food provision.

· The council’s social work teams have helped speed up safe hospital discharges to free up hospital beds.

· Enabled more than half of all Leeds City Council officers to work from home.

Leeds on 'upward curve of coronavirus cases' as council thanks 'heroic frontline workers'