THE University of Sunderland has confirmed that 40 students and four members of staff have tested positive for Covid-19.

A spokesperson for the University of Sunderland said: "As of Monday, September 28, a number of people in the University of Sunderland community have tested positive for Covid-19, this includes 40 students and four staff.

"All of those affected are receiving university support and cases are being managed according to public health requirements.

"Across the university, we have detailed plans in place to manage such situations and we are following these closely. These plans include working with Public Health England to gather information, as well as to support and advise students who have tested positive or are self-isolating with symptoms.

"University staff are in contact with the city council and health officials and continue to follow agreed procedures and guidance.

"We remain confident in our measures to protect the health and wellbeing of our students and staff. These include physical changes to our campus facilities, protocols around social distancing and hand-washing, an enhanced cleaning regime, and changes to our teaching model."