Everything you need to know as Doncaster could go into Tier 4

After most of the south and sout-east of England were escalated to Tier 4 on Boxing Day, the Government is set to expand the strictest coronavirus restrictions to millions more in an announcement this afternoon (Wednesday, December 30).

With case rates rising across the country, as well as the number of Covid-19 admittals in hospitals, any review is likely to involve areas moving up a tier rather than down.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News: “We are facing a very significant challenge in the NHS right now.

What will change if Sheffield and South Yorkshire go into Tier 4 today - the rules explained

“There has been a significant rise in the number of cases – the highest number of cases recorded yesterday, 53,000 cases. We are going to have to take further action."

You can catch the announcement on BBC1 at 4.50pm.

What is Tier 4?

Under the new Tier 4, non-essential shops, gyms, cinemas, hairdressers and bowling alleys will be forced to close for two weeks.

Pubs, bars and restaurants will be closed except for takeaways, drive-throughs and deliveries.

People should not mix with anyone outside their own household, although support bubbles will remain in place and two people from different households can meet in public outdoor spaces.

People should remember the ‘stay at home’ rule and not go out without a ‘reasonable excuse’ which include shopping for groceries and medicines, visiting people under their care or in their support bubble and for education or childcare purposes.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.