Why lockdown in Harrogate will be different this time

This time yesterday there was a buzz of cars in Harrogate town centre - and the bustle of people.
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Today, like the flick of a switch, a lot of that activity has gone as a four-week lockdown begins. But things may be better this time.

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For the second lockdown is not exactly the same as the first.

Back in March and April the middle of Harrogate was a desolate place. But this time the rules are different.Back in March and April the middle of Harrogate was a desolate place. But this time the rules are different.
Back in March and April the middle of Harrogate was a desolate place. But this time the rules are different.

Back in March and April the middle of Harrogate was a desolate place.

But this time the rules are slightly different.

Unlike the first full lockdown introduced on March 23 by Prime Minister Boris Johnson - when town centres such as Harrogate’s were deserted after all businesses except food stores, post offices and pharmacies shut there doors - this time round there may be more life.

Schools, colleges and universities can stay open under the new national lockdown which is scheduled to run from today, Thursday, through until December 2.

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Pubs, restaurants, gyms and non-essential shops have had to close but even in this case the rules are not the same as March.

Click and collect - where customers order online and go to pick them up - is allowed now.

Boots Opticians and Specsavers will operate as normal, while the British Dental Association has confirmed that dental services will be available, too.

Many cafes are staying open for takeaways.

Public toilets will also remain open this time

Meeting another person from outside your household wasn't allowed until May.

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This time, you can meet a friend in an outdoor public place - as long as there is social distancing and neither party is self-isolating.

Bubbles are also permitted: An adult living alone or a single parent family can mix with one other nominated household of any size.

In March people were told to take only one form of exercise outdoors a day. Now it is unlimited.

Exercise should still be done locally wherever possible, but you are allowed to travel to do so if necessary, this time.