Peterborough’s director of public heath says ‘it is no time to be complacent’ as lockdown restrictions are eased

While case numbers in Peterborough are falling, they remain much higher than the UK rate as a whole, and while people can meet up with family and friends for the first time in months, there are still strict rules in place to ensure people stay safe.

Dr Liz Robin said: “While everyone is pleased to see the slight relaxation in lockdown rules from March 29, and the success to date of the vaccination programme, it is important that we don’t become complacent.

“To keep heading in the right direction, it is as important as ever to stick to the government rules which are still in place, and to follow the hands, face, space and fresh air guidance.

“Please stay local if you can, avoid crowded places, and remember it is safer outside in the fresh air.”

Figures released yesterday evening put Peterborough 26th in the list of areas with the highest COVID rate in the country, with 112.2 cases per 100,000 people - nearly double the UK rate of 56.2.

The new lockdown rules are:

- Outdoor gatherings - including in private gardens - of either six people (the Rule of 6) or two households are now allowed. Indoor gatherings are not permitted.

- Outdoor sports – Activities that take place outdoors, such as tennis and basketball courts and open-air swimming pools are allowed to reopen, and people can take part in formally organised outdoor sports. This does not permit spectators.

- Work from home - People should continue to work from home where they can.

- Stay local – Residents are advised to stay local and minimise the number of journeys they make where possible, avoiding travel at the busiest times and on the busiest routes. People should also remember to take face coverings and sanitiser with them.

- Travel abroad - Travel abroad is prohibited, other than for a small number of permitted reasons. Holidays abroad are not allowed, in order to manage the risk of imported variants and protect the vaccination programme.

- Remain cautious, even if you’ve had the vaccine - This is because the vaccine takes two to three weeks to work and for a full course, two doses are required. It is still possible to catch COVID after having had the vaccine, so it’s important to continue with social distancing, handwashing and other safety measures.