Interesting news, Northampton and Shire are on a (slow) decline of cases. Here is hoping we make Tier 1!
Hate to be pessimistic, but I'd consider Northampton lucky if 'we' made Tier 2.
Daily cases per 100k are comfortably above the national average (260 vs 210, week to 16 Nov). They have only just started to show signs of levelling-off or falling, and this hasn't been sustained for long enough to give any confidence that it's the start of a persistent downward trend.
I'd imagine GPC's guess is right and we will sneak into Tier 2 as long as the fall continues and/or accelerates. Can't see N'ton in Tier 1 this year though.
All the same, it's great news and I'll definitely be there given the chance!