More than 100 areas in England are experiencing a rise in Covid-19 infection rates according to Public Health England data.

The Press Association news agency compiled the figures based on Public Health England data with 103 areas across the country seeing a week on week rise in case numbers as lockdowns ease.

Readers said they were not surprised by the increase in infections but said it was too early to blame the easing of restrictions.

Isobel Fenton said: “Whether its pubs, shops, schools, life has to go on. You can’t stay cooped up forever. If you don’t like it, stay at home, but don’t blame other people for wanting to get out and live their lives.”

Anita Hodgson added: “Well it was bound to happen, time we learn to live with it.”

Sarah Little said: “Too early to say it’s a rise due to pubs as they, like all other non-essential shops, only opened on Monday.”

Susan Clapperton added: “Not shocked one little bit.”

Judith Scott said: “Far too early to say it's a rise due to pubs as they only opened on Monday, and are trading outside. Non-essential shops, hairdressers and beauty salons opened same day, I don’t see them getting the blame.”

Andrew Burns added: “Why pubs, didn’t non-essential shops open again. 1,000 in Primark, etc. But let’s just blame the pubs that are operating with good Covid measures in place.”

Lee Murphy said: “It’s hospital admissions and death numbers you have to watch. Cases will always go up as the vaccine doesn’t stop you getting it, just stops you getting seriously ill.”

Frank Wilkinson added: “No surprise, it will rocket again.”

Iain Fred Coe said: “No surprise there, next week Cumbria will be high up the list with all the influx of tourists.

On Monday the second stage of the Government's roadmap out of lockdown began and the concerning figures came as people get set to enjoy the first weekend since pub beer gardens reopened.