More Restriction Expected in North-East England

Local restrictions are expected to be announced in the north-east of England, where coronavirus cases have been rising.

Nearly two million people in Newcastle, South Tyneside, Sunderland, Northumberland and County Durham are set to be affected by the move.

The measures could include pubs closing at 22:00, people being told not to mix with other households, and public transport only being used for essential travel.

The full announcement is expected to come later on Thursday – with the measures starting at midnight, Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick told ITV’s Peston programme.

Newcastle City Council leader Nick Forbes said it was hoped the temporary measures would prevent a “full lockdown”.