MORE than 400 positive coronavirus cases have been confirmed in the last 24 hours - one of the highest totals since the virus first hit.

The data, which is released by the Government, shows 403 new cases were confirmed in four Somerset districts up to 5pm yesterday (January 1).

Somerset West and Taunton saw the highest increase with 139 new cases, bringing the total since the start of the pandemic to 2,931. 

Sedgemoor had 81 positive tests. This brings the total to 2,773. 

South Somerset also saw a big increase in cases with 116 found in the latest 24 hour period bringing the total to 2778.

Mendip saw an increase of 67, bringing the total to 1,722.