Coronavirus: New restrictions in North West, Midlands and West Yorkshire

The stricter restrictions will take effect in Lancashire, Merseyside, parts of the Midlands and West Yorkshire after significant increases in Covid-19 cases, the government said.

The new rules prohibit separate households from meeting at home or in private gardens.

Pubs and restaurants must also close early in parts of Lancashire and Merseyside.

The measures will take effect from Tuesday.

The government said Lancashire (excluding Blackpool), Merseyside, Warrington and Halton had escalated to “intervention areas” after a “major increase” in cases.

Here, residents will not be allowed to socialize outside their homes in homes and gardens, hospitality will be restricted to table service only, and pubs and restaurants must close between 10 PM and 5 AM.

Residents are also advised to use public transportation only for “essential purposes.”

New restrictions are also being implemented at Wolverhampton, Oadby and Wigston in Leicestershire, and parts of Bradford, Kirklees and Calderdale.