Lockdown Ends Tomorrow – Wiltshire Shifts to Tier 2
The national lockdown wraps up tomorrow (2nd December), but don’t get too relaxed just yet. Wiltshire is jumping straight into Tier 2, aka “high alert”. That means fresh restrictions from the Government are now in force.
New Tier 2 Rules: What You Can and Can’t Do
- No indoor household mixing — except if you’re in a support bubble.
- Stick to the rule of six when meeting outdoors.
- Pubs and bars must shut – unless they serve substantial meals.
- Alcohol only with food. Last orders by 10pm, venues close by 11pm.
- Avoid travelling out of your area or into Tier 3 zones, unless it’s necessary like work or school.
For the full lowdown on Tier 2 restrictions, head to www.gov.uk/coronavirus.
Wiltshire Police Crack Down on Rule Breakers
Over the past week, Wiltshire Police slapped two fixed penalty notices on lockdown rule-breakers. One offender in Swindon ignored multiple warnings about leaving home without good cause. Meanwhile, a teenager in Devizes gathered in a group larger than allowed – resulting in their parent getting a fine.
Between 23rd and 29th November, police stats revealed:
- 2 Fixed Penalty Notices issued, totalling 246 since the pandemic began.
- 33 warnings handed out for breaching Covid rules.
- 92 public engagements – 36 for no face coverings, 54 for illegal gatherings.
- 136 Covid-related reports logged.
- 3 Covid-related crimes and 6 incidents recorded.
Officials Urge Caution During Festive Build-Up
Deputy Chief Constable Paul Mills said: “Although lockdown ends this week, Tier 2 means we must stay cautious to keep case numbers down over Christmas. Thanks to the community for high compliance so far. Our patrols will continue to enforce rules, especially regarding face coverings and sticking to ‘hands, face, space’.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson added: “Please read the Tier 2 rules carefully. We all need to find new ways to celebrate Christmas safely. Restrictions may be easing but reducing social contact remains vital to protect the vulnerable.”
Crime Drops as Covid Policing Persists
Meanwhile, the National Police Chiefs Council revealed that recorded crime is down nine percent compared to last year – thanks in part to Covid-19 restrictions. To see the full report and stats, visit the NPCC website.
