Norfolk remains in tier two coronavirus restrictions

Coronavirus restrictions for Norfolk will remain unchanged following the first review of the new tier system.

But large parts of East Anglia have been moved into the highest tier three restrictions, following a rise in cases.

Norfolk will remain in tier two, meaning households cannot mix indoors and pubs can only open if they are serving "substantial meals".

But spectators can continue to attend sporting fixtures, meaning punters will be able to return to Fakenham Racecourse for the first time this season on Sunday, though officials are currently limiting attendance to its annual members.

Norfolk County Council leader Andrew Proctor said a short time ago: “The Government has given us clarity, by confirming that Norfolk will remain in tier two. This was to be expected as part of the strategy to contain the virus.

“While this may be disappointing for many, I would encourage everyone to continue to follow the tier two rules and the Government’s latest advice on Christmas bubbles, so we can all play our part in driving cases down.

“I hope that, by doing this, we will increase our chances of enjoying Christmas safely and be able to ease restrictions sooner. We cannot afford to drop our guard at this crucial point in the winter.”

Latest data, for the week ending last Friday, December 11, showed there were 217 confirmed coronavirus cases in West Norfolk, up 75 on the previous week.

Cases are rising across all areas of the county, except for North and South Norfolk.

And health secretary Matt Hancock told MPs this morning that, across the East of England as a whole, case numbers have risen by two thirds.

Several areas, including Peterborough, have been moved into the highest tier three restrictions, effective from 12.01am on Saturday.