Yesterday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the Government is set to lift an array of lockdown restrictions, signalling one of the biggest relaxations of the guidelines since the coronavirus pandemic began.

From July 4, two households of any size will be permitted to meet in any setting - inside or out.

As large parts of the economy reopen:

  • Pubs and restaurants will be limited to table service and will be asked to collect customers' details so they can be traced if there is a coronavirus outbreak.
  • Hairdressers will be able to reopen with precautions including the use of visors.
  • The domestic tourist industry will be boosted by the reopening of accommodation including hotels, B&Bs and campsites along with most leisure facilities and attractions such as theme parks.
  • Outdoor gyms and playgrounds will be returned to use.
  • Cinemas, museums and galleries will be allowed to open their doors again.
  • Places of worship will reopen, with weddings of up to 30 people allowed - although any receptions afterwards would be severely limited as only one other household would be allowed to join the bride and groom.

However, "close proximity" businesses including nightclubs, soft play centres, indoor gyms, nail bars and beauty salons will remain shut as will bowling alleys and water parks.

Live performances at concert halls and theatres are also still banned, partly due to the risk posed by singing in spreading the virus.

Mr Johnson said the measures will help restore a sense of normality after "the toughest restrictions in peacetime history".

While this latest easing of lockdown is to be welcomed - it's worth remembering how far we've come and to redouble our efforts to contain the virus.