Tougher restrictions eased in Bolton as coronavirus cases fall

The borough had been subject to tougher restrictions, which meant hospitality businesses could operate as takeaways only, and there had been concerns about people travelling from Bolton to Wigan to eat or drink.

But the Government has now announced the measures will be lifted from Saturday.

Instead, Bolton venues such as bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants will have the same rules as elsewhere in Greater Manchester, with table service, closure at 10pm and the rule of six restrictions.

It comes as rates of coronavirus have fallen in Bolton, which previously had the highest proportion of cases in the country.

Bowling alleys, indoor skating rinks, casinos, indoor play, including soft play, conference centres and exhibit halls will also be able to reopen in Bolton.

Previous advice against restarting indoor theatrical or concert performances will no longer apply.

Restrictions on attending weddings, wedding receptions and funerals will be brought in line with the rest of Greater Manchester and the country.

New measures have been announced in other areas, with Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Halton, Liverpool City Region, (Liverpool, Knowsley, Sefton, St Helens, the Wirral) and Warrington brought in line with the latest measures for Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Northumberland and Sunderland in the North East.

From Saturday, residents there must not meet anyone outside their household or bubble in any indoor setting, including private homes and gardens. These measures will be enforceable by law and subject to fines.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “Our strategy is to suppress the virus, protecting the economy, education, and the NHS, until a vaccine can make us safe.

"I understand how much of an imposition these new measures are. I want rules like this to stay in place for as short a time as possible. I am sure we all do.

“The more people follow the rules and reduce their social contact, the quicker we can get Liverpool, and the North East, back on their feet.”

The Wigan Observer is more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription to support our journalism. For unlimited access to Wigan news and information online, you can subscribe here