Following the Health Secretary, Matt Hancock's, announcement today (Wednesday) Dorset remains in Tier 2.

However, the Government's criteria for tier allocations will be closely monitored over the coming days and weeks.

Cllr Spencer Flower, leader of Dorset Council, said: "2020 has been a tough and unprecedented year for everyone.

"With the exception of Christmas day, Dorset has remained in Tier 2 restrictions following the review earlier this month. This is disappointing but on balance the right decision for Dorset.

"It's vital that we all continue to follow these guidelines to mitigate the spread of Covid-19 in Dorset.

"This will help to contain the case rates which have risen sharply in the past two weeks, and assist our hospitals in maintaining adequate bed capacity and don't become overstretched during the winter months so they can continue to deliver the best care for those who really need medical treatment in this difficult time."

Several factors are considered when looking at the tier system. Along with headline infection rates, the Government also looks at the infection rate in older people, the impact on the care sector and pressure on local hospitals - all of which continue to be a concern in both council areas.

Mr Hancock announced that from 00:01 on Boxing Day, Sussex, Oxfordshire, Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, as well as parts of Essex not in Tier 4, Waverley in Surrey, and Hampshire, including Portsmouth and Southampton but not the New Forest, will enter Tier 4.

Bristol, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Swindon, the Isle of Wight, the New Forest and Northamptonshire, as well as Cheshire and Warrington, will go into Tier 3.

Cornwall and Herefordshire will be in Tier 2.