New coronavirus lockdown rules coming into force across Scotland

New restrictions have been put in place to halt the spread of COVID-19.

Brand new rules come into force from today across Scotland as the country tussles with preventing the spread of coronavirus.

Ayrshire residents are among those being advised to follow the new restrictions.

The main change for the public is that six people from two households will be able to meet indoors and outdoors.

Hundreds of fresh coronavirus cases are now being recorded each day in Scotland.

Ayrshire has also been reporting a considerable rise in positive tests too.

More strict guidelines have been introduced in Glasgow, East and West Dunbartonshire, Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire and North and South Lanarkshire.

Today, the Scottish Government has provided more detail on what is and isn't allowed for the rest of Scotland.

Seeing friends and family

• No more than 6 people in total (from a maximum of 2 households) may meet at any time at home, in an outdoor space including a garden or park, or in a pub, restaurant or café.
• As long as physical distancing between members of different households is maintained, this can include overnight stays.
• Children under 12 from the 2 households do not need to maintain physical distance and do not count towards the total number of people at the gathering.
• The partners in a non-cohabiting couple, and any children who live with them, do not need to maintain physical distancing from each other.
• The public should not meet socially with people from more than 4 other households in total (whether indoors and/or outdoors) each day.

Face coverings

• In indoor places and where physical distancing is difficult and where there is a risk of contact within 2m with people who are not members of your household, members of the public are expected to wear a face covering.
• Customers and staff in indoor hospitality settings will have to wear face coverings when roaming around - including going to the toilet and waiting to take a seat.
• Exemptions for vulnerable groups and individuals will apply.

Anyone over the age of 18 found to be in breach of the new rules could be issued with a fine of £60 (reduced to £30 if paid within 28 days).

If a person has already received a fine for breaching coronavirus rules, the amount will increase to £120 and double on each further repeat offence up to a maximum of £960.