Wales to go into national ‘firebreak’ Covid lockdown for two weeks from Friday

A two-week “firebreak” lockdown will be introduced across Wales from 6pm on Friday, First Minister Mark Drakeford has confirmed.

Mr Drakeford told a Welsh Government press conference in Cardiff that the measure was necessary to reduce the spread of coronavirus and prevent the NHS from becoming overwhelmed.

The “sharp and deep” lockdown will begin at 6pm on October 23 and last until November 9, with everyone in Wales “required to stay at home”.

“The only exceptions will be critical workers and jobs where working from home is not possible,” Mr Drakeford said.

More to follow.