Stafftest positiveat Scotbeef

Scotbeef in Bridge of Allan has confirmed a number of staff have been forced to selfisolate after testing positive for Covid-19.

Officials at the meat processing plant are now working with NHS Forth Valley’s Public Health Team to ensure the safety of the rest of their workforce following confirmation of the tests in the last few days.

A Scotbeef spokesperson said the company had taken the necessary action and reaffirmed the safety measures it had put in place since the beginning of the pandemic.

The spokesperson said: “We take their welfare very seriously and are working with the relevant authorities to ensure everyone’s safety. When the virus emerged earlier in the year, we introduced comprehensive protection measures.

“Frequent inspections confirmed we have taken all necessary precautions however, given the size of our workforce and the rising levels in the wider local community, it is not unexpected we would experience some positive cases. We continue to work closely with NHS Forth Valley’s Public Health Team.”

Stirling has been plunged into the highest level of coronavirus restrictions following continued concern over case rates in the region.

The decision to move Stirling up to level four was confirmed by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon yesterday - with the change set to come into effect from Friday.

She said the action was necessary due to “continued and significant concern” over case rates, with Stirling being singled out for a “particularly sharp increase” amid concerns over the level of community transmission locally.

The decision follows the tragic news that 10 residents have died in a Covid-19 outbreak at Fairview Care Home in Bannockburn.

A further 27 residents and 16 staff have also tested positive for the virus, with a handful of further staff also self-isolating.