BREAKING Warrington moves into top tier of restrictions

Government 'had to take action' in Warrington. UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock said infection rates have been rising and it was time "to take action" in Warrington, which has been moved into England's top tier of coronavirus restrictions. The area, in north-west England, will join Greater Manchester, South Yorkshire, Lancashire and Liverpool City region in tier three from tomorrow.

Under tier three rules, pubs and bars not serving substantial meals have to close, while household mixing is banned indoors and outdoors in hospitality settings and private gardens.

Betting shops, casinos, bingo halls, adult gaming centres and soft play areas will also have to close in Warrington, while there is guidance against travelling in or out of the Cheshire town, which is home to about 210,000 people.

The restrictions will be reviewed in 28 days' time.

The government will provide a financial support package of £1.68m to Warrington, as well as £4.2m in business support funding.

The UK government has confirmed Warrington, in north-west England, will move into the highest tier of coronavirus restrictions.

The new measures will come into force from tomorrow.