HALTON Borough Council has urged residents to comply with new coronavirus restrictions.

Rules that came into force in the borough yesterday, Tuesday, mean that people are unable to visit the homes of those outside of their households or social bubble.

Bars and restaurants – and all businesses in the hospitality sector – must close between 10pm and 5am, with table service only.

The government is also advising that public transport should only be used for ‘essential purposes’, such as travelling to work or school, and that no spectators should attend amateur or semi-professional sporting events.

Guidance states that residents should avoid socialising with people they do not live with in public and not visit care homes ‘other than in exceptional circumstances’.

‘Informal arrangements’ for the care of children under the age of 14 are allowed though.

HBC’s director of public health Eileen O’Meara said: “I am pleading with all residents of all ages in all areas of the borough to stick to the new restrictions and also to the advice being given – I cannot stress how important it is that we all do this.

“We have seen positive cases increase rapidly in Halton and it is absolutely critical we get a firm grip of this virus now if we want to avoid even tighter restrictions having to be brought in.

“I also want to remind people to keep doing the basics.

“Think back to when we were singing happy birthday every time we washed our hands – we need to get back to that, washing our hands regularly for 20 seconds.

“We need to make sure we are keeping our distance, two metres if we can and wearing a face covering wherever we are asked to.

“Think hands, face, space.”