Three Tier 2 areas are among the 20 worst coronavirus hotspots in England, latest data shows - with one rising into the top 10.
The government is facing a backlash after imposing strict restrictions on huge swathes of the country. Basildon in Essex - which this week dodged being put into the highest tier - now has the eighth highest infection rate in the country.
London boroughs Redbridge and Havering have the 11th and 16th largest rates respectively. By comparison Stratford-upon-Avon, which is in Tier 3, is 281st out of 315 local authorities.
Local leaders in the Warwickshire town this week launched legal action, saying they should not face the toughest restrictions.