Christmas shoppers advised to take lateral flow test before hitting the high street
The government is recommending taking one if in crowded spaces
Last updated 23rd Nov 2021
People doing their Christmas shopping are now being advised to take a lateral flow test to prevent the spread of coronavirus this winter.
New updated government advice has recommended that those hitting the high street to do the antigen test, to ensure safety "in crowded and enclosed spaces".
While there is no direct reference to Christmas in the new guidance, the change in advice comes at a time when thousands of people are likely to be in retail shops and shopping centres.
Previously, the government had recommended that people take two lateral flow tests a week, with a particular focus on families with children going to school.
The shift in advice comes as infection rates across the UK and Europe are on the rise.
Countries such as Austria and the Netherlands have imposed new restrictions to stop the spread of COVID-19 and bring on a fourth wave of infection.
However, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that new limits on gatherings - termed 'Plan B' by the government - would be unlikely to be implemented for the winter.
'Plan B' would also include the reintroduction of mandatory face masks, as well as the instruction to work from home.
Lateral flow tests to follow the new government guidance are available for free at local pharmacies across the UK.
The best gifts for Christmas 2021
With Christmas coming up, it might be hard to come up with ideas for presents, especially for the kids.
If you are braving the shops, here are the top toys selling at Christmas this year, according to the Toy Retailers Association:
Barbieâ„¢ Dreamtopia Rainbow Magicâ„¢ Mermaid
It's Barbie, she's always a popular choice. This one comes with rainbow hair and a mermaid tail that changes colour in water, so it's brilliant for bath-time.
Price: £24.99
Bluey Family Home Playset
Bluey's from the animated TV series on CBeebies and Disney+. This toy is definitely in the doll-house category, and complete with 10 accessories so the kids will be occupied for hours (most likely).
Price: £39.99
CoComelon Deluxe JJ Interactive Doll
This toy is a large doll, that's also a boy! That will see a lot of young lads set their sights on this one. You can feed him, while he also sings songs and makes cute baby giggle sounds. That means it could get annoying, but come on - It's for Christmas!
Price £39.99
Gassy Gus
Gassy Gus is the only game to make it into the top 12, so if you want to get your kids something other than a plain old toy that's still popular, this is the one! Players take it in turns to inflate Gus's stomach, with him letting out a big fart and a chuckle when he gets too full. What's not to love?
Price: £24.99
Hot Wheels® Massive Loop Mayhem™ Track Set
It's Hot Wheels, it's colourful and it looks awesome. There's nothing else to say.
Price: £54.99
Jurassic World Slash 'n Battle Scorpios Rex
This action figure will be massively in demand after the Jurassic Park franchise's big recent reboot. Younger kids who haven't seen the films will still love it because, well, it's a dinosaur.
£31.99
Piggly from Little Live Pets
Piggly would be an adorable addition to Christmas this year. It squeals and snorts and has a very cute little trot. Any little one who fancied their own pet would love this.
Price: £24.99
L.O.L. Surprise! Movie Magic Doll
Packaged in small round balls, each LOL doll has ten surprises, including a secret message, 3D glasses, a fashion outfit and a movie script. This one is all about anticipation, and kids will love not knowing which doll they'll get.
Price: £10.99
A Magic Mixies Cauldron
If you're looking for something a bit more impressive, this is the winner. Kids can mix potions and create a magical creature. It's guaranteed to be a success.
Price: £69.99
Chase's Deluxe Transforming Vehicle from Paw Patrol
This is going to be pretty popular for fans of the show. For those kids that aren't (are there any?), you can push the car's spoiler to reveal a projectile launcher that will shoot discs at the press of a button. It's a certain hit.
Price: £44.99
A plush toy of Pikachu from Pokémon
This 8" plush Pikachu is super soft and perfect for bed time. Plus, it's Pikachu - everyone's favourite Pokemon.
Price: £13.99
from LEGO Star Wars
No top toys list is complete without Star Wars or Lego - this one combines the two. It's a model of the best part about the latest Star Wars craze, Boba Fett's ship from The Mandalorian. This one will go quick from shelves, and it's a great one for family time.
Price: £44.99