Surrey and Hampshire urged to follow new Tier 2 coronavirus restrictions

Surrey and Hampshire are being encouraged to follow the new rules as we enter Tier 2 coronavirus restrictions today.

Hampshire County Council's director of public health, Simon Bryant, says by doing so, we can help control infection rates:

"It is encouraging that the rate of increase of the virus has reduced across all of our county during the recent period of national restrictions, but the number of cases is still going up, and this is a concern as we head into winter.

"By continuing to follow the Tier 2 (High) guidance, we can all help to control infection rates and protect each other’s health.

"Our aim now, is to get back down to Tier 1 (Medium) with the additional freedoms this brings, including for our economy and local businesses."

The leader of Surrey County Council, Tim Oliver, said last week, when the new tier system for each area was announced, that we cannot be complacent:

"I know that this is not the news that some of us wanted to hear after four weeks of national restrictions but I do want to thank all our residents for their patience and continued commitment in following the public health guidance - it has had an impact - and on the whole their actions have kept cases down across the county.

"The coming weeks and months will continue to be a challenge to us all, but we cannot be complacent and must continue to do all we can to reduce the spread of this virus."

How Hampshire Constabulary will deal with Tier 2 restrictions

Hampshire Police's Assistant Chief Constable Maggie Blyth, has warned that their officers will robustly respond to "blatant breaches".

She thanked the "vast majority" who had followed the rules over recent months.

And she said while the force would continue to engage and encourage compliance, "blatant breaches will face robust enforcement action from our officers."

She said officers would continue carrying out Covid-related patrols.

With regard to travelling, she said people should observe restrictions - but that " we will not be preventing people from travelling from one area to another, but are working with ferry operators and partner agencies to ensure that people are informed about the different restrictions in place on the Isle of Wight as compared to the rest of Hampshire."

There was also advice regarding support for those suffering domestic abuse - which Assistant Chief Constable Blyth said worsens "during a period behind closed doors where contact with other peopel like family and friends is restricted."

She said victims should call 999. If they cannot speak, then they should press 55 - and the force's controllers will know what to do.

You can also call Hampshire Domestic Abuse Service on 03300 165112 or Stay Safe East on 0208 519 7241 to get confidential help.