Rules explained as Greater Manchester added to Tier 2 in new COVID alert system
In the new tier system outlined by the Prime Minister yesterday, which separates areas by their risk level ('medium', 'high', and 'very high'), Greater Manchester and its 10 boroughs were placed into the second category, or Tier 2.
Number 10 – Boris Johnson announced the new tier system this week
So, now we know.
After days and weeks of speculation, rumour and hearsay surrounding the prospect of a second lockdown, the people of Greater Manchester have finally been given an official answer as to whether they can continue living their lives and running their businesses.
It’s a ‘yes’… but with a warning.
In the new tier system outlined by the Prime Minister yesterday – which separates England regions by their risk level (‘medium’, ‘high’, and ‘very high’) – Greater Manchester and its 10 boroughs were placed into the second category, or Tier 2.
The headline, of course, is that we avoided the harshest measures.
Cities and towns within Tier 2 do not have to close hospitality or non-essential stores – which means that pubs and restaurants will continue to trade as normal, despite initial fears they’d be shut down.
The government has now published the guidance for each tier online, as well as a full list of the regions that fall within each category.
Number 10 – Speculation has been rife as to which category Greater Manchester would find itself a part of
Tier 1 – ‘Medium’ risk
Most places in England have been categorised in Tier 1 – areas where the risk of COVID transmission is considered ‘medium’.
Regions placed in Tier 1 must continue to follow national rules, which include:
The Rule of Six: People must not meet in groups larger than six, indoors or outdoors
A 10pm curfew for hospitality
Businesses and venues selling food for consumption off the premises can continue to do so after 10pm as long as this is through delivery service, click-and-collect or drive-thru.
Many businesses and education facilities in this tier are permitted to remain open (except for the likes of nightclubs), with funerals and weddings permitted to go ahead with restrictions on attendee numbers.
Any location in England not listed below (in Tier 2 or Tier 3) is under Tier 1.
Number 10 – Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty isn’t convinced the current measures go far enough, and believes more restrictions may be necessary later down the line
Tier 2 – ‘High’ risk
Greater Manchester has been placed in Tier 2.
This is for areas with a higher level of infections. Anyone within these regions must adhere to the rules of Tier 1 (Rule of Six, 10pm curfew etc) but also consider the following guidance:
People must not meet with anybody outside their household or support bubble in any indoor setting, whether at home or in a public place
People can meet in groups of up to 6 outside – including gardens
People should aim to reduce the number of journeys they make where possible and avoid peak times and public transport.
Businesses, pubs and bars remain open.
Currently, the places in England listed in Tier 2 include:
Tier 3, the ‘very high’ alert level, has seen the reintroduction of restrictions for areas where the virus is spreading quickly.
Locations in this category must:
Close pubs and bars; although restaurants may remain open
Ban wedding receptions
Avoid mixing with anybody outside a household or support bubble in any indoor or outdoor setting
Avoid travelling outside the area except for work, education and youth services
Overnight stays in this area are also banned. Residents of Tier 3 locations should also avoid staying overnight in other parts of the UK.
According to the government, “consultation with local authorities will determine additional measures,” which means local leaders will need to decide if further restrictions will be necessary in the event that “baseline” measures prove ineffective.
Manchester to fall silent today to mark 80th anniversary of VJ Day
Emily Sergeant
Manchester will mark the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ Day) with a poignant ceremony at the city’s Cenotaph today.
While VE Day in May 1945 signified the end of World War II in Europe, thousands of British, Commonwealth, and Allied troops continued to fight in Asia and the Pacific – but VJ Day, which was declared on 15 August 1945, brought a final end to the global conflict.
The day remains a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom, and Manchester‘s commemorations today will aim to honour their courage, resilience, and sacrifice.
The event will bring together veterans, civic leaders, cadets, and members of the public in a shared moment of reflection and gratitude.
This year’s commemorations in the city centre will begin at 11:50am.
15 August 1945 marked Victory over Japan.
Join us tomorrow at 11:40am at the Cenotaph to commemorate the 80th anniversary of WWII in the Far East and honour those who served🫡
A two minute silence will be held at 12 noon, marked by a maroon.
Commemorations will start with opening remarks from The Very Reverend Rogers Govender, followed by a solemn programme of remembrance.
The service will begin at 11:58am with The Exhortation recited by Brigadier AG Ross OBE, followed by The Last Post sounded by WO2 Nick Burroughs, and then at midday, a national two-minute silence will be observed – which will be marked by the firing of a maroon.
Brigadier Ross will then recite the Kohima Epitaph, leading into the wreath laying ceremony featuring cadets from the Manchester Trafalgar Unit Sea Cadets, and the Lord Mayor of Manchester.
The service will conclude with the singing of the National Anthem.
Manchester to fall silent today to mark 80th anniversary of VJ Day / Credit: Manchester City Council
Iconic buildings and landmarks in Manchester, including the Manchester Civic Quarter Heat Network (CQHN) tower, will illuminate their facades from 9pm tonight to honour VJ Day.
“Today, Manchester stands united in remembrance and respect,” commented Councillor Carmine Grimshaw, who is the Lord Mayor of Manchester. “The 80th anniversary of VJ Day is not only a tribute to those who served and sacrificed, but also a celebration of peace and resilience.
“Manchester’s commemorations today reflect the deep gratitude we hold for those who gave so much for the freedoms we have today.”
Featured Image – Manchester City Council
News
First look at Chester Zoo’s new luxury safari-style lodges where you can sleep amongst the animals
Emily Sergeant
The first look at Chester Zoo’s new luxury safari-style resort has been released to the public, and it looks stunning.
In case you missed it, artist impression images of the highly anticipated wildlife lodge experience at Chester Zoo, called The Reserve, were unveiled earlier this year ahead of its grand opening to the public this month following several years in the works… but now opening day is right around the corner, the first official images have been shared.
The Reserve at Chester Zoo features 51 beautifully-designed lodges, with some overlooking a private savannah where giraffes, zebras, and blesbok antelope roam free, while others are nestled beside a peaceful lake.
Guests can choose from a variety of different lodges to stay in, available for up to nine people.
The lodges have been crafted using natural and sustainable materials, with the décor being inspired by landscapes in Africa, and it’s already being described as ‘the ultimate African safari experience right here in the UK’.
Combining luxurious accommodation with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the zoo’s world-renowned wildlife, Chester Zoo says the new resort is set to transform how travellers experience conservation in the UK.
Those behind the project say the innovative concept – where every stay directly-funds the protection of threatened species globally – will help to strengthen the zoo’s role as ‘one of the country’s most loved and most impactful conservation charities’.
Chester Zoo has given the first look at its new luxury safari-style lodges / Credit: Chester Zoo
“The Reserve at Chester Zoo is a game-changer, not just for luxury travel but for conservation,” commented Jamie Christon, who is the CEO at Chester Zoo.
“Born from our long-standing commitment to protecting African wildlife, we’ve created a truly immersive, safari-style experience right here in the UK, where guests may wake up to giraffes on their doorstep, enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters and relax in beautifully designed lodges surrounded by nature.
“But what makes The Reserve truly unique is its purpose.
“Guests at The Reserve aren’t just going to enjoy a luxury break – they’re going to power our conservation movement for generations to come.”
Stays at the resort are now available to book online / Credit: Chester Zoo
In the off-season, prices for the lodges start from £375, while one-night stays in summer start from £672.50.
And then in peak season, for the more luxurious lodges, prices can go all the way up to £2,486, but it is worth noting, however, that this does include guided safari tours and going behind the scenes with the giraffes.
The Manc -
13th October 2020 
