The Covid roadmap back to normality

The Government has released a 'roadmap' out of the Covid crisis in England, with a gentle easing of the restrictions.

We have already seen the first stage, with schools and colleges allowing all students to return on March 8.

On the same day we were permitted to exercise and enjoy recreation in outdoor public spaces with our own household or one other person.

Up to 30 people can now attend funerals, although wakes and weddings are limited to six people, while care home residents can have one nominated visitor.

So, what are the next stages in England?

The first stage of the roadmap out of lockdown

FROM MARCH 29:

• The rule of six applies, with up to six people or one other household meeting outside, including in private gardens.
• The stay at home rules ends, but people are urged to stay local as much as possible.
• Outdoor spoors and leisure facilities re-open and organised outdoor sports can once again be held.
• Domestic and international holidays remove banned.

STAGE 2 - (no earlier than April 12):

• All shops allowed to open, including hair and beauty salons, which will also be permitted in people's homes.
• Customers allowed to eat and drink outdoors at pubs and restaurants.
• Gyms and spas to re-open, along with zoos, theme parks, libraries and community centres.
• People in the same household can holiday in the UK in self-contained accommodation.
• Up to 30 people will be able to attend weddings.

STAGE 3 - (no earlier than May 17):

• People able to meet in groups of up to 30 outdoors.
• Six people or two households can meet indoors.
• Pubs, restaurants and other hospitality venues can seat customers indoors.
• Up to 30 people can attend weddings or other life events such as christenings.
• Remaining outdoor entertainment, such as outdoor theatres and cinemas can open.
• Indoor entertainment such as museums, theatres, cinemas and children's play areas can open.
• Performances and large events can restart, but with limits on audience numbers.
• Hotels, hostels and bed and breakfast businesses can reopen.
• International leisure travel may resume.
• Adult indoor group sports and exercise classes can restart.

STAGE 4 - (no earlier than June 21):

• All limits on social contact will be removed
• No limit on how many people can attend weddings, funerals and other life events
• Nightclubs allowed to reopen.