NORTH Wales remains under "close watch" as covid-19 cases increase in some areas, the Welsh Government has said today.

The statement comes as Coronavirus laws are being further tightened in Neath Port Talbot, the Vale of Glamorgan and Torfaen in response to a growing spread of cases.

Local restrictions in those areas will come into force from 6pm on Monday.

The Welsh Government has said it is "continuing to keep a close watch on the situation in North Wales".

A spokesman explained: "Cases overall are much lower (in North Wales) than in South Wales, but there is evidence coronavirus is increasing in some parts of the region."

First Minister Mark Drakeford said: "Introducing restrictions in any parts of Wales is always an incredibly difficult decision for us to make.

"But we’re acting to protect people’s health and to try and break the chain of transmission and stop the situation from getting worse.

"It’s really important everyone follows the rules where they live.

"We need everyone’s help to bring coronavirus under control.

"We need everyone to pull together and to follow the measures which are there to protect you and your loved ones.”