Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin staying in Tier 2
Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin will remain under Tier Two of the of the Government's Coronavirus restrictions.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock made the announcement in the House of Commons, where he said that only three areas would be dropping down into a lower tier – Bristol and North Somerset from three to two and Herefordshire, from two to one.
It means that regulations in Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin will remain the same until the next review.
Under the rules people cannot mix indoors in Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin with anyone apart from members of their household or bubble, but they can meet in a group of up to six outside – including in a private garden, or a public place.
More:
Shops, gyms and personal care services, such as hairdressing, can stay open, but pubs and bars can only open if they serve substantial meals – alcohol can be served with that meal.
Pubs and restaurants must also shut at 11pm, with last orders at 10pm.
Sports events in stadiums can be attended by up to 2,000 spectators, and collective worship, weddings and outdoor sports can take place – with restrictions.
Non-essential foreign travel is also allowed, subject to quarantine rules but people are advised not to travel to and from tier three areas.
A number of areas have been moved into the most severe Tier 3 restrictions, as they are extended across a wide area of East and South East England.
Rachel Robinson, Shropshire Council’s director of public health, said: “I know many people will be disappointed with this news.
“We have worked tirelessly to reduce the spread of infection across Shropshire, and we have made some really good progress. Unfortunately, we have seen numbers rising in recent days and the Government have decided that we should remain in Tier 2.
“This feels like the right decision for the time being, especially with cases going in the wrong direction. We know that transmission of the virus takes place largely as a result of inter-household mixing, so we are pleading with people to be sensible.”
Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care, public health and climate change, added: "Many people will now be turning their attention to the festive period. I stress how important it is for people to be extra cautious. People really need to consider the potential impact on themselves and loved ones when the rules are relaxed between December 23-27.
"The scientific advice is clear: the longer you meet others for, the higher the risk of you catching and spreading the virus. If you do intend to form a bubble, you should keep the bubble small and your visits short.
“It is up to us to stop the spread of the virus. The greatest gift anyone can give this Christmas is keeping yourself and your family safe. No-one wants to see a further lockdown come January.”
