Dorset has been moved up to Tier 3 following the Government's most recent announcement, but Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have been moved into Tier 4.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson addressed the nation today (Wednesday, December 30) to announced which areas would be in which Tiers on New Year's Eve and into the new year.

A rise in coronavirus cases and hospital admissions has been reported in the county and the new restrictions will come into effect from Thursday, December 31.

Here are the Tier 3 restrictions:

You must not meet socially indoors or outdoors in a private garden with anyone you do not live with. You can see friends of family you do not live with in some outdoor public places in groups of up to six, including children of any age. These include parks, countryside, forests all accessible to the public, allotments, playgrounds and public gardens.

You can continue to meet in a group larger than six of you are all from the same household or support bubble.

Overnight stays are advised against, other than with household or support bubble.

Everyone who can work from home should do so and schools, colleges, universities and early years settings remain open.

Bars, pubs, restaurants and the rest of hospitality are closed with the exception of sales by takeaway, drive-through or delivery.

Retail, hairdressers and gyms are open - although group activities and classes at leisure centres should not take place - but indoor entertainment venues are closed, as well as accommodation, with limited exceptions.

Events should not take place but drive-in events are permitted.

Classes and organised adult sport can take place outdoors, but people should avoid higher-risk contact activity. Group exercise activities and sports indoors should not take place, unless with your household or support bubble. Organised activities for elite athletes, under 18s and disabled people can continue.

Visits to residential care homes can only be made with Covid-secure arrangements, such as substantial screens, visiting pods and window visits.

Weddings, civil partnerships and wakes can have 15 guests and funerals can have 30. Wedding receptions are not permitted.

Places of worship are open but people cannot interact with anyone outside their household or support bubble.

Residents should avoid travelling outside their area, other than for work or education. Reduce the number of journeys where possible and plan ahead to avoid busy times and routes on public transport. Avoid car sharing with those outside your household or support bubble.