NEW coronavirus rules come into force today which limit the amount of people who can meet up indoors and outdoors.

RULE OF SIX

The rule of six has been introduced as the UK's R number rises to between 1 and 1.2 for the first time since March, which indicates that infections are increasing.

A further 3,330 positive cases were recorded in the UK on Sunday, along with five more deaths related to Covid-19.

A maximum of six people of all ages from multiple households are allowed to meet socially at gatherings in private homes, venues like pubs and restaurants, or outdoor spaces.

Pubs, restaurants, shops and other venues will remain open, but people can only attend in groups of up to six.

Venues should also allow for social distancing between groups. Places of worship may remain open but with a limit of six people attending per group.

EXCEPTIONS

There are exceptions where gatherings of more than six people will be allowed in England:

-If a household or support bubble is larger than six

-If gatherings are for work or education purposes

-Weddings and funerals

-Team sports organised in a way that limits the spread of coronavirus

-If you live in a household of more than six you can gather in public or private. However, you will not be able to join with anyone from outside of your household.

FINES

Members groups that exceed the maximum size can be fined by police if they fail to follow the rules. This will be £100 for a first offence, doubling on each further offence up to £3,200.

The government says: "Putting the new, lower limit in law will make it easier for the police to identify and disperse illegal gatherings."

OTHER GUIDANCE

Social distancing is still recommended at two metres but, if that's not possible, you can stay "1-meter plus" apart. The "plus" means doing something else to limit your possible exposure, like wearing a face covering.

Face coverings are compulsory if using public transport across the UK, though some people are exempt, such as those with certain medical conditions.

Coverings must be worn in shops, though shop workers are exempt.

SYMPTOMS

If you begin suffering symptoms of coronavirus, self-isolate by staying at home for 10 days and arrange to get tested.

The symptoms are: new continuous cough, high temperature, and a loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell

If your test is positive, you must complete the remainder of your 10-day self-isolation. Anyone you live with should self isolate for 14 days (from the time you started having symptoms).

Contact tracers will also get in touch with people with positive results.