Today Sheffield was designated as a high-risk area. This is for areas with a higher level of infections than other parts of the UK. Our cases have risen significantly, and as a result hospitalisations are once again beginning to increase and that means we must do everything we can to supress this virus again.

This means on top of restrictions that currently apply, we will also need to follow these new rules:

• you must not socialise with anybody outside of your household or support bubble in any indoor setting, whether at home or in a public place
• you must not socialise in a group of more than 6 outside, including in a garden or other spaces like beaches or parks (other than where specific exemptions apply in law)
• businesses and venues can continue to operate, in a COVID-secure manner, other than those that remain closed in law
• you can continue to travel to venues or amenities that are open, for work or to access education, but should look to reduce the number of journeys you make where possible

I recognise how frustrating these latest restrictions will be after months of sacrifice, but I would urge everyone to pull together and continue to do their bit to bear down on this virus.

With Sheffielders meeting one side of the bargain, the Government need to honour theirs. We need a functioning test, trace and isolate system in place urgently. Without it, we will be unable to track outbreaks and will continue to face avoidable restrictions like those announced today.

There is really no excuse for the failure to have this system in place for Autumn, and as your MP I will be demanding Ministers get their act together because I know patience is running out.

You can find more information about tier two restrictions on the Government’s website and in the graphic below.