Relaxation of coronavirus restrictions to be put on hold announces Boris Johnson

The Prime Minister Boris Johnson today announced that a planned relaxation of restrictions scheduled for this weekend will not go ahead.

The news comes after tighter restrictions were introduced in areas of Northern England.

The prevalence of the virus in the community is now rising - with the Office of National Statistics suggesting that now 1 in 1,500 people have the virus.

Now casinos, bowling alleys and sports pilot events will be postponed until at least August 15th.

Originally these venues were going to be allowed to reopen tomorrow (August 1).

Workplace guidance remains unchanged - meaning you can go back to work in a Covid-secure environment from Monday.

Shielding has also been paused as planned.

Face masks will now also have to be worn in galleries, museums and cinemas.

The Prime Minister was keen to emphasise the progress that has been made in the fight against the virus.