"You are prolonging the pandemic" - that is the simple message from the leader of Milton Keynes Council to people breaking lockdown rules in the city.
"If you stay at home, we return to normal more quickly", Cllr Peter Marland added.
The message came as part of his weekly video update, which included updates on the latest situation in Milton Keynes.
Cllr Marland said that on the first day of national lockdown alone, a record 494 people tested positive for COVID-19 in the city.
Meanwhile, the number of patients at Milton Keynes Hospital is higher than ever before and rising every day.
He said: "Our medical and nursing professionals are battling to save lives. People you love, your friends, your neighbours, your colleagues."
"These are people we know, people we care for. The human cost of this pandemic is stark and terrible. The situation we face is grave."
He reminded residents to observe the 'Hands, Face, Space' guidance if leaving the house for an essential reason.
And there was more news on the pilot rapid testing scheme launching in Milton Keynes this week, as exclusively revealed by MKFM.
Cllr Marland said that the scheme was initially only open to certain key workers such as the police and fire service, alongside some council workers such as social workers.
If the scheme goes well, it could then be extended to other key workers.
However, the scheme is currently by invitation only and so you shouldn't contact the council to try and book or turn up at the testing site without an appointment.
The existing testing scheme for people with symptoms continues and tests can be booked at gov.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.
In addition, Cllr Marland said he has asked the government for more financial support for Milton Keynes individuals, the self employed and some busness sectors - as well as for people who have to self-isolate.
He finished with the key message: "Stay home, protect the NHS, save lives".
