WINCHESTER is preparing to come out of the second national lockdown next week.

One thing is certain – gyms and non-essential shops will be allowed to reopen, according to the prime minister.

But other restrictions will come down to which tier the city is placed in. Currently, from December 2, it will be in tier 2.

This means residents are not allowed to meet with more than six people outside, must not mix households indoors, pubs and restaurants will close at 11pm and alcohol can only be purchased with a substantial meal.

Limited numbers will be allowed to sports events and live performances.

Every 14 days this tier will be reviewed in a regional lockdown system that will stay in place until March.

The allocation of tiers will be dependent on a number of factors, including each area's case numbers, the reproduction rate and the pressure on the NHS locally.

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