Another Yorkshire city to come under tighter restrictions

York will face tougher Tier 2 Covid measures from Saturday, Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said.

Under Tier 2 high-alert measures, which already affect West and South Yorkshire, there is a ban on households mixing indoors, including in pubs and restaurants.

York’s infection rate has risen significantly. The provisional rate of new Covid positive results per 100,000 of population for the period 6-12 October in York is 247.37.

The latest local “validated” seven day rate for York for the period 2-8 October was 261.1.

The national and regional averages at this date were 156.5 and 267.5 respectively.

Councillor Keith Aspden, leader of City of York Council, said: “This year has been exceptionally difficult for everyone, and we are grateful to residents and businesses across the city who have gone to great lengths to adapt to the new guidance and protect our city. However, we must adapt again.

“Despite being restricted from mixing indoors, there are still plenty of ways we can spend time with our family, friends and in the city.

“Our businesses have stepped up and created controlled safe spaces for people to safely enjoy the city.

“It is crucial that we continue in this spirit, shop local and work together to protect the people and places we love.

“Together with our partners, we will continue to lobby the Government for further financial support for our local businesses during this difficult time, as it is absolutely critical the Government unlocks more funding for businesses and to ensure employment support in areas with additional restrictions.

“Despite this year’s challenges, York has demonstrated what it does best − pulling together and supporting each other.

“It is crucial that we continue in this spirit to avoid any further restrictions and protect our city.”