Boris Johnson confirmed in the House of Commons today that the government would be implementing new restrictions to tackle the rise of COVID cases in Britain.
The Prime Minister said that office workers should now work from home where possible.
From Thursday, pubs, bars and restaurants in England must operate table service only – closing at 10pm.
The legal requirement to wear face coverings will be extended to retail, taxis and hospitality (unless drinking/eating), whilst COVID-secure guidelines will now become law.
Fines of £10,000 will be issued to businesses who do not adhere to the new rules.
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Those who do not wear a face covering where required to do so may also be liable for £200 fines – even for a first offence.
From Monday, a maximum 15 people can attend weddings and receptions. Up to 30 can attend funerals.
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Reintroducing sports fans to stadiums will not go ahead on October 1 as originally planned.
The Prime Minister gave the statement to his fellow politicians at Westminster on Tuesday afternoon, praising the fortitude of the British people but admitting the UK had reached “a perilous turning point.”
The announcement came just over 24 hours after a presentation from top medical advisers Professor Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance – which revealed British cases could reach 50,000 per day.
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Johnson also used Spain and France as examples of how the numbers would grow “unless we act”.
Reports had already speculated that England’s hospitality sector would be subjected to new restrictions.
Michael Gove had also hinted at tighter measures during an appearance on BBC Breakfast, admitting the government were set to make a u-turn on their ‘Back to Work’ plan; changing their tune to ask for people to work from home instead.
As many as 11 million UK residents are currently living under social curbs.
Fines of up to £10,000 will also be introduced from Monday to anyone who does not self-isolate when asked/required to do so.
News
Manchester United legend Denis Law has died aged 84
Emily Sergeant
Manchester United legend Denis Law has sadly died aged 84, it has been announced.
The Aberdeen-born footballer was a prolific striker throughout his career, scoring 237 goals in 404 appearances for Manchester United – the club he signed for a then-British record transfer fee back 1962, before departing in 1973 – and also playing for Manchester City too for two separate spells during the 1960-61 and 1973-74 seasons.
Law was an integral part of United’s triumphant record-setting 1968 European Cup winning campaign, was the only Scottish player to have won the Ballon d’Or award, in 1964, and also the only man to have two statues dedicated to him at Old Trafford.
But, he previously announced in August 2021 that he had sadly been diagnosed with dementia.
The whole of Manchester, including everyone at City, is mourning with you. Rest in peace, Denis. Our thoughts are with Denis’ family and friends at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/YuwjMXKgxn
A formal statement confirming Law’s passing by his family was announced by Manchester United this evening: “It is with a heavy heart that we tell you our father Denis Law has sadly passed away. He fought a tough battle but finally he is now at peace.
“We would like to thank everyone who contributed to his wellbeing and care, past and much more recently.
“The ultimate goal-scorer, his flair, spirit and love for the game made him the hero of a generation. Our deepest condolences go out to Denis’s family and many friends. His memory will live on forever more.”
Advice issued as ‘quademic’ of winter bugs continues to take hold in Greater Manchester
Daisy Jackson
People in Greater Manchester are being urged to get any vaccinations they are due done, as a ‘quademic’ of winter bugs runs rife.
Cases of flu, Covid, norovirus and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) are continuing to take hold across the country, and here in Greater Manchester.
The city is seeing more flu cases and hospital admissions than usual for this time of year.
So now health chiefs are urgently reminding eligible people to get their flu jabs and other vaccinations, to protect themselves and others.
Mancs are also being reminded to follow key public health advice, such as frequent hand washing and staying at home when you’re ill.
The flu vaccination drive runs until the end of March and people who are eligible for it can get it from their GP, pharmacy or one of the city’s walk-in clinics, where no appointment is needed.
Dr Cordelle Ofori, Manchester’s Director of Public Health, said: “Our advice is very similar to recommendations made during the Covid pandemic.
“It’s really important to keep washing hands well and regularly; cough or sneeze into tissues or your arm; wipe down key communal surfaces like handles on doors; and where possible, stay at home if you are ill to avoid passing on any infections.
“And, in addition to this we would urge anyone who is also feeling financial or food pressures to ring our free cost of living advice line on 0800 023 2692 or text on 07860 022876.”
Councillor Thomas Robinson, Executive Member for Healthy Manchester and Social Care, at Manchester City Council, said: “Manchester people are well-known for how they look after one another – and passing the flu message on could save lives, as well as unnecessary illness at a time when people face many pressures.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for people to have their vaccination, so please do go to our walk-in clinics if you are 18 and over and eligible for the vaccine. No appointment is needed: it’s quick, easy and done by teams who want to help you.”
The Manc -
22nd September 2020 
