Council leader reacts to news that Rugby will be held in Tier 3 restrictions over Christmas and New Year

The leader of Rugby Borough Council has responded to this morning's news that Rugby is to remain under tier 3 coronavirus restrictions.

Cllr Seb Lowe said the news was devastating - but described the recent resurgence in coronavirus cases in Rugby as alarming.

He said: "Pubs and restaurants will be devastated by today’s news, especially as they are not the cause of transmission of the virus and have put a lot of effort into making their businesses safe.

"Nevertheless, the figures are clearly alarming with a sharp increase in cases and the infection rate in over 60s still too high.

"We all need to make sure that we keep our distance from others when shopping or on the school run, and keep wearing face coverings and washing or sanitising our hands.

"If we don’t take these precautions we could see a sharp rise in cases in the New Year. It is so important that we plan our Christmas celebrations so that we can keep our friends and family safe."

The move to place Rugby under Tier 3 restrictions from December 2 sparked outrage among residents, business owners and Rugby MP Mark Pawsey.

Already-struggling hospitality businesses in the town were devastated by the news they would be forced to say shut.

Many hoped a Government review on December 16 would see the town, and Warwickshire at large, brought down to Tier 2.

But a rise in cases in Rugby and across the county means residents and businesses will have to endure Christmas and New Year under the toughest restrictions.

The town's Tier 3 status will not affect the Christmas 'bubble' rules.