St Andrews University students advised not to leave the town amid a 'sharp and significant' rise in coronavirus infections

St Andrews University is advising students not to leave the town amid a "sharp and significant" rise in coronavirus infections.

The infections affect four halls of residence and also private accommodation, according to the university.

More than ten students have tested positive for Covid-19.

There are more than 40 others self-isolating.

Kingdom FM has seen an e-mail from University Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor Sally Mapstone where she said it's “very likely” that the outbreak is linked to the new UK strain of the virus.

It's expected there might be a further rise in coronavirus among students in the coming days.

The university has published advice on its website for students.

Part of the advice reads: "Students in St Andrews have already been asked not to travel over the spring break.

"It is now of vital importance that you heed and act on that advice.

"You may feel perfectly well, but there is now a very significant risk that you could carry coronavirus to family and friends, or the people with whom you travel."