Sheffield City Region Mayor Dan Jarvis 'welcomes' Boris Johnson's lockdown

On Monday evening the Prime Minister announced tough new restrictions on everyday life which he said are “vital” to stop the spread of the disease.

In response, Dan Jarvis said: “These are unprecedented times and we all have a responsibility to work together and do everything we can to slow this virus down. The situation is grave and each day more people are dying from this disease.

“I welcome the new measures introduced by the Prime Minister tonight. I urge everyone to follow this advice and in particular to stay at home unless there is a compelling reason to leave.”

As part of the new rules, which will be enforced by police, people must stay at home except for shopping for basic necessities, daily exercise, any medical need and travelling to and from essential work.

Shops selling non-essential goods are being told to shut and gatherings in public of more than two people who do not live together are to be prohibited.

Mr Jarvis added: “My heartfelt thanks goes to our NHS workers and all those on the frontline who are each day risking their lives to save others. We will forever be in their debt. It’s now time for everyone to follow the advice and take every measure to contain this disease. Lives depend upon it.”