During a briefing in the House of Common's this afternoon (Monday 12th October), the Prime Minister announced the introduction of a new three tier coronavirus lockdown system, adding that Cheshire West and Chester will be placed in Tier Two.

This means that the borough is at 'high' risk from Covid-19. Therefore, the government is seeking to "reduce household-to-household transmission by preventing all mixing between different households or support bubbles, indoors."

"In these areas, the rule of six will continue to apply outdoors, where it is harder for the virus to spread," Mr Johnson said, adding that the new tier system "simplifies and standardises" lockdown measures.

So, Frodsham, Helsby, Kingsley and Elton residents will no longer be allowed to:

• meet people from outside their household or support bubble inside private homes.
• meet people from outside their household or support bubble inside hospitality venues.

You are still allowed, however, to meet people from outside your household or support bubble in a private garden, park or other public place, such as an outdoor restaurant seating area.

Mr Johnson also warned that, "further restrictions on the hospitality sector" could be imposed if infection rates are not reduced by the new measures.

Most local authorities remain in Tier One, under the 'medium level' restrictions of the rule of six and the 10pm curfew that have already been imposed nationwide.

Equally, some areas, including the Liverpool City Region, have been placed in Tier Three - 'very high' risk - which will involve the closing of pubs and bars.