WORCESTERSHIRE will go into tier two of the government's new stricter tier system on December 2, it has been announced.

The government's tiered Covid-19 response will return when the nationwide lockdown is lifted from December 2, plunging parts of the country back into local measures.

Worcestershire had previously been in the lowest tier - tier one - meaning residents had to obey the Rule of Six and pubs and restaurants had to close by 10pm, but groups of less than six people from different households could still mix indoors, unlike in the higher tiers.

However, the county will be placed in the middle tier next week, meaning stricter restrictions for the county's residents.

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But what is the new tier system and what does it mean for Worcestershire? Here's everything you need to know.

  • People in tier two will not be allowed to mix households indoors, apart from in support bubbles. The Rule of Six applies outdoors.
  • Pubs and bars must close unless operating as restaurants. That means hospitality venues can only service alcohol with substantial meals. Venues must stop taking orders at 10pm and must close by 11pm.
  • Retail can stay open.
  • Everyone who can work from home should do so.
  • Early years settings, schools, colleges and universities will remain open.
  • Childcare, other supervised activities for children and childcare bubbles are permitted.
  • Indoor leisure facilities will open.
  • Overnight accommodation will stay open. Overnight stays are permitted within households or support bubbles.
  • Personal care such as hairdressers and salons can open.
  • There will be a limit of 15 guests for weddings, civil partnerships, wedding receptions and wakes. A limit of 30 people will apply for funerals.
  • Entertainment venues can open.
  • Residents will be advised to reduce the number of journeys they make and walk or cycle if possible. People should avoid busy times and routes on public transport, avoid car sharing with those outside their household or support bubble, and avoid travelling outside their tier, or entering a tier 3 area other than when necessary such as for work or education.
  • Exercise classes and organised adult sport can take place outdoors, but cannot take place indoors if there is an interaction between people from different households. Organised activities for elite athletes, under-18s and disabled people can continue.
  • Covid-secure arrangements for residential care in care homes such as substantial screens, visiting pods and window visits will be allowed. Outdoor/airtight visits only will be permitted.
  • Large events including sport, live performances and business meetings will be limited to 50 per cent capacity or 2,000 people outdoors - whichever is lower - and 50 per cent capacity or 1,000 people indoors - whichever is lower.