Gazette readers have had their say after the Government introduced new restrictions in a bid to halt a surge in coronavirus cases.

The new measures include:

  • Office workers who can work from home should do so.
  • Pubs, bars and restaurants in England will be ordered to close by 10pm each night with table service only.
  • Face coverings must be worn in taxis and by retail staff while at work.
  • Customers in indoor hospitality will also have to wear face coverings - except while seated at a table to eat or drink.
  • Exemptions to the rule of six will be reduced, banning indoor team sport such as indoor fivea-side football matches.
  • The planned return of spectators to sports venues will now not go ahead from October 1.
  • Wedding ceremonies will be capped at 15 people.

Many Gazette readers accused the Government of putting out a contradictory message.

Here are some of your comments:

Jim Taylor said: “Half-hearted gentle lockdown does not work.

"Lock us down or let us live our lives.”

Philip Pearson added: “Pubs will need to call last orders at 9.30pm in order to ensure everyone is out by the required time.

"Restaurants will find it difficult to accommodate second sittings without rushing people.

“While it is not a good idea to have groups of drunk people out in pubs into the early hours of the morning, 10pm is far too early.

Who is going to go out for an evening at the pub now?”

Debby Newman said: "Maybe people should start taking responsibility for their own actions instead of following the crowd.

"I wear a mask and keep my hands clean, it's not rocket science really.

"I choose to do this to protect the people i care about."

Sam Bingle added: "Such an inconsistent and contradictive approach, has been from the very beginning. 

"I can go shopping in a supermarket with 100 people yet I cant meet up with my sister as together that makes us eight."

Jessè Hawkins said: "Me and my partner are both business owners.

"Although I agree with some of the lockdown measures, a half-baked attempt at a lockdown seems futile. 

"It’s only a matter of time before it becomes impossible for businesses to survive. 

"There is only so much we can do online."

But Kevin Starling said it is down to individuals to follow the guidance. 

"It is not government that will stop this is is you," he said.

"Do your bit, wash you hands, wear a mask and keep your distance. How is that confusing?"