Following an announcement this morning from Health Secretary Matt Hancock, Kenilworth and the rest of Warwickshire have been escalated to Tier Three in the UK Government's three-tier system for dealing with Covid-19.

The new restrictions will begin on Thursday, December 3 and will see much harsher restrictions imposed upon the people of Kenilworth than before the second national lockdown began.

Following the announcement today, Mayor of Kenilworth Cllr Richard Dickson has spoken to Kenilworth Nub News about the new restrictions.

"The sad news today that Kenilworth, along with the rest of Warwickshire, is in Tier three is obviously very disappointing news.

"Residents and businesses have gone to huge lengths in recent weeks and months to respect the rules and many people have been struggling, both health-wise and financially.

"Thankfully local cafes, pubs and restaurants can still operate a takeaway service so we must support them as much as we can. Within limits we can still get out and take exercise.

"Local places of worship can be open and weddings and funerals can take place, although in both cases there are restrictions. Our brilliant schools will stay open unless there are outbreaks of Covid-19. I know the amazing Covid-19 Support Kenilworth volunteers are supporting vulnerable residents as much as they can too.

"But there is no running away from this. These are tough times.

"As much as we can, we must support one another and our local businesses.

"Thank you for all that you are doing.

"Remember, it won't always be like this, it's going to get better."