Plymouth moves into Tier 3

Plymouth is moving up to Tier 3, as part of a review of coronavirus restrictions.

It's along with the rest of Devon and Cornwall.

It means that hospitality venues such as pubs and restaurants will have to close from Thursday (31 December), unless they offer a takeaway service and travel outside the area is discouraged.

The Health Secretary announced the change, as more areas of England moved into Tier 4 - the highest level of measures.

Matt Hancock said that, although they will "place a significant burden on people...I'm afraid it's absolutely necessary".

He added: "Sharply rising cases and the hospitalisations that follow demonstrate the need to act where the virus is spreading."

A total of 44 million people (78% of England's population) will be in that toughest tier.

In Plymouth, Covid cases have doubled in the past week, although that includes 150 cases onboard Royal Navy ship, HMS Northumberland, which is based at Devonport.

According to the latest Government figures:

• 88 people in Plymouth have tested positive with Covid-19 in the last 24 hours

• There have been no new recorded deaths within 28 days of positive test in Plymouth

• In the last seven days, 13 people have been admitted to hospital with the virus, in the city.

• What do Tier 3 restrictions mean?

• • people must not meet socially indoors, in a private garden or most outdoor public venues with anybody they do not live with or have a support bubble with. Everyone who can work from home should do so;

• • people can see friends and family they do not live with (or do not have a support bubble with) in some public outdoor places - such as parks or public gardens  in a group of up to 6;

• • weddings and funerals can go ahead with restrictions on the number of attendees – 15 people can attend wedding ceremonies, wedding receptions are not allowed, 30 people can attend funeral ceremonies, 15 people can attend linked commemorative events;

• • accommodation such as hotels, B&Bs, campsites, holiday lets and guest houses must close, other than where very limited exceptions apply;

• • hospitality settings, such as bars (including shisha bars), pubs, cafes, restaurants, and social clubs must close except for takeaway, delivery, drive-through and click and collect services. Takeaway must cease between 23:00 and 5:00, but delivery, drive-through and click-and-collect may continue during this period. This includes restaurants and bars within hotels or members’ clubs;

• • indoor entertainment venues, such as casinos, bowling alleys, and bingo halls must close. Outdoor entertainment venues, such as botanical gardens and heritage sites, may stay open, although indoor elements at these attractions must also close. Cinemas, theatres, and concert venues must close; except for drive-in events; and

• • leisure and sports facilities may continue to stay open, but indoor group exercise classes (including fitness and dance) should not go ahead.

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