Harrogate to be under Tier 2 restrictions after national lockdown ends next week

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has made a statement in the House of Commons on the new Covid-19 tiers, but prior to the announcement the government launched a postcode checker for England's regions.

After crashing within minutes of being launched, it showed Harrogate - and the rest of North Yorkshire - will not make a return to the Tier 1 restrictions but be placed under Tier 2.

Harrogate's weekly infection rate has more than halved during the last two weeks, down from 302 cases per 100,000 people to 147.

However, it remains much higher than it was at the end of summer (37).

Under the Tier 2 restrictions, no household mixing is permitted indoors, with the exception of those who have formed a support bubble.

Outdoors, a maximum of six people gathering is allowed.

Pubs and bars can only reopen providing they serve "substantial meals" and must close at 11pm, with last orders at 10pm.

Shops, hairdressers and leisure facilities, such as gyms, can reopen.

As in Tier 1, people are encouraged to reduce their movements and should avoid travelling into Tier 3 areas for all but essential purposes.

Holiday accommodation can open, but overnight stays are only permitted with your own household or support bubble.

At weddings, 15 guests will be allowed to attend, with the number rising to 30 for funerals.

Outdoor sport can take place, but are not allowed indoors if it involves household mixing.

Places of worship can reopen, but there must be no mixing between people who are not from the same household or support bubble.

Large events will be allowed to take place, but are limited to 50 per cent capacity or 2,000 people outdoors and 1,000 people indoors.

The national lockdown will end on December 2.

By Jacob Webster, Local Democracy Reporter