New three-tier restrictions come into force in England

The new three-tier system of COVID-19 restrictions has begun in England.

Most of the country is in the lowest tier, medium, but millions of people in the north and the midlands face extra curbs on households mixing.

The Liverpool region is the only area to be under the toughest rules, with pubs and bars not serving meals closed.

Government health officials are due to meet later to discuss the possibility of greater Manchester, Lancashire and some other areas joining the top tier.