Tougher Covid-19 rules to be introduced in Liverpool, Warrington, Hartlepool and Middlesbrough over weekend

Different households will be banned from mixing with each other in any indoor setting, such as private homes or gardens from one minute past midnight on Saturday, October 3.

It comes after Sheffield has recorded its highest number of coronavirus cases in one day since the pandemic hit, with government statistics showing 159 people tested positive for the virus on Wednesday, September 30.

The previous highest figure was 110 on March 31 when testing was largely restricted to hospital settings and the total number of confirmed positive cases in Sheffield now stands at 6,259.

The new restrictions in parts of the North East and North West, have been introduced after incidence rates in Liverpool, St Helens, Knowsley, Halton and Warrington rose above 170 per 100,000.

Residents are also encouraged not to meet with anyone outside their household or bubble in outdoor public spaces, such as in parks and outdoor hospitality, while schools and covid-secure settings remain open.

A total of £7 million of funding will be provided to local authorities which are subject to the new rules and residents are advised only to travel for essential reasons such as going to work, or school.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “Our strategy is to suppress the virus, protecting the economy, education, and the NHS, until a vaccine can make us safe.

“I understand how much of an imposition these new measures are. I want rules like this to stay in place for as short a time as possible. I am sure we all do.

“The more people follow the rules and reduce their social contact, the quicker we can get Liverpool, and the North East, back on their feet.”

Bolton will also be brought in line with measures in place throughout the rest of Greater Manchester as case rates have fallen.

This means hospitality businesses including bars, pubs, cafes, restaurants can resume table service subject to early 10pm closure and the rule of six restrictions.

Bowling alleys, indoor skating rinks, casinos, indoor play, including soft play and conference centres and exhibit halls will also be able to reopen in Bolton.

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