Epsom and Ewell borough has been identified as an "area of concern" for authorities in Surrey amid a surge in new coronavirus infections in recent days.

The borough recorded the second-highest infection rate of any local authority in Surrey according to new Public Health England (PHE) data with recent infections up almost everywhere across the county.

According to the PHE data, Epsom and Ewell recorded 38 new Covid-19 infections in the week up to May 31.

That was up 20, or a significant 111.1 per cent, from the previous week's figure.

It also meant Epsom and Ewell recorded the second highest 'rolling rate' of new infections per 100,000 people in Surrey, clocked at 47.1.

That was significantly higher than the UK-wide average of 35.9 and second only to Reigate and Banstead's rate of 71.3.

"Our data dashboard shows that both Reigate & Banstead along with Epsom & Ewell are both particular areas of concern," a Surrey County Council spokesperson said.

"Rates are also rising across the county especially in the 10-19 age group. Please take extra care around those who may be more vulnerable or aren't vaccinated.

"Our public health advice to everyone remains the same: the best way to stop the spread of the virus is to follow the guidelines.

"Hands, face, space and fresh air. Get vaccinated and take up the offer of regular testing."

The news arrived as concerns about a third wave of Covid-19 infections in the UK linked to the highly infectious 'Delta' variant named B.1.617.2 persisted.

PHE's latest data on the presence of the Indian variant said that at least nine cases of the infectious Covid strain had been confirmed in Epsom and Ewell as of June 3.