The Prime Minister has stated England's lockdown will end on December 2 and the country will revert back to a tiered system, which will be stricter.

Boris Johnson announced this afternoon that gyms, leisure centres and non-essential shops in all areas will be allowed to reopen when England's lockdown ends on December 2.

Pubs can stay open until 11pm, with last orders at 10pm, only pubs serving meals in Tier Two can open and those in Tier Three will have to stay shut except for takeaway.

Theatres can reopen and spectator sports resume in Tier One and two areas with limits on audience numbers.

Areas are expected to find out which tier they are in on Thursday, with the PM saying tiers will be "a uniform set of rules, we won't have negotiations on additional measures with each region". Most are expected to be in higher tiers than before.

The delay is due to government needing to see the data from each area and discussions with local authorities.

'Cannot wait to welcome everyone back'

William Thrower, general manager at Bridport Leisure Centre, has welcomed the news gyms and leisure centres can reopen.

He said: "It is fantastic news that Gyms and Leisure Centres will be able to reopen their doors from December 3.

"The leisure centre is a vital service for so many of our members, and since reopening in July the safety of our members and staff has always been our number one priority.

"I would like to personally thank everyone who has supported the leisure centre during these extremely challenging times and we cannot wait to welcome everyone back."

'They rely on our support'

Bridport residents are being urged to support independent businesses this Christmas after it was announced all shops could reopen on December 3.

Bridport Business Chamber President Robert Mühl said: "This is very good news for all businesses. This time of year is extremely critical for the shops that are set up for Christmas sales. The non-essential businesses need time to regain their momentum.

"However, the warning is clear - keep doing what the Government is asking us to do. Washing hands, wearing masks and social distancing must be adhered to. We at the Business Chamber really hope this will avoid further lockdowns.

"Bridport Business Chamber has been here to help all businesses. We have amazing members who have been through everything, and working closely with the Bridport Town Council, we are there for them.

"And I would urge everyone to please buy from your local independent businesses this Christmas - they rely on our support."

'Virus not going to grant a Christmas truce'

In terms of Christmas, Mr Johnson said he "can't say Christmas will be normal this year" and we "don't want to throw caution to the wind and force us back into lockdown in January".

He said he is working with the other nations on a plan for Christmas for the whole of the United Kingdom, but it will "enable people to see more family and friends over Christmas". However, he did warn that families should make "careful judgement" on visiting elderly relatives.