The government has announced that the Harrogate district will move into tier 3.

The decision, which comes into effect at one minute past midnight, means pubs and restaurants will only be able to provide takeaways.

It will force many people to change their New Year's eve plans.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock made the announcement this afternoon as part of a review of the national tiers.

Tier rules are based on factors such as infection rates, particularly in the over 60s, and pressure on hospitals.

North Yorkshire was previously in tier 2 but rising rates, especially in Scarborough and Hambleton, prompted the decision along with concern about the spread of the new mutant strain of covid.

The Harrogate district's infection rate has also risen considerably over the last fortnight, albeit less dramatically.

Public Health England confirmed another another 47 positive cases yesterday and the R number rose above one for the first time in over a month.

Read more:

• 
  

  NHS insists Harrogate Nightingale ‘can take patients if required’

  
  


• 
  

  MPs watch 2020: the year of coronavirus, Brexit and free school meals

  
  

What are the rules in tier three?

• You must not meet socially with anybody you do not live with or have a support bubble with.


• However, a group of up to six may meet outdoors in some public places, such as parks and beaches.


• Shops, gyms and personal care services (such as hairdressing) can stay open, as can swimming pools.


• Small wedding ceremonies can take place but with no receptions.


• Hotels, B&Bs, campsites, holiday lets and guest houses must close.


• Indoor play centres and areas, including soft play centres and areas must close.


• Leisure and sports facilities may continue to stay open, but group exercise classes (including fitness and dance) should not go ahead.


• Work from home where possible.


• No supporters are allowed into sporting events.


• The advice is not to travel to-and-from tier three areas.