Dorset residents are urged to follow Tier 3 rules and there is "no room for complacency".

Following the Secretary of State Matt Hancock's announcement today (Wednesday, December 30) the Dorset Council area will be moving to Tier 3 from tomorrow.

Tier 3 restrictions and guidance must be followed from New Year's Eve in a bid to reduce the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable people.

Sam Crowe, director of public health for Dorset and BCP councils, said: "The number of positive cases of Covid-19 across the Dorset Council area has risen rapidly over the last week. Tier 2 measures are not enough to stop the virus spreading.

"Our infection rates have risen in people over the age of 60, which is putting increased pressure on already stretched NHS services. Making sacrifices now means we could prevent an even larger spike in January.

"It is essential, now more than ever that everyone follows the rules for Tier 3 to help drive infections down.

"Until the vaccine is rolled out wider, we must do all we can to suppress the virus by staying at home as much as possible.

"Remember; hands, face, space and ventilating your home are simple measures we can all do that will make a difference."

In Tier 3, people must not mix indoors or outdoors in venues or private gardens, the rule of six applies in outdoor public spaces.

Restaurants, cafes, and bars must close and can only provide a take-away service.

Councillor Spencer Flower, leader of Dorset Council, said: "With case numbers rising rapidly, further action now will help to contain the spread of the virus here in Dorset.

"I'm afraid there's no room for complacency here, we all need to continue to play our part to protect people's lives and our NHS.

"As ever, I'd like to thank people for all they are doing as a very difficult and unprecedented year draws to a close.

"I know moving into Tier 3 will be hard for many residents and local businesses but, with the vaccine now being rolled out, I sincerely hope it won't be too long before we can return to some form of normality."