THE Borders is going back into a full-scale lockdown for at least four weeks.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced today (Monday, January 4) that mainland Scotland will see strict coronavirus rules enforced from midnight until at least February 1.

These rules will be even tighter than the Level 4 measures which forced the closure of pubs, restaurants and non-essential shops.

During her statement, Ms Sturgeon outlined what the new restrictions will mean for mainland Scotland. The rules are similar to those seen in March 2020.

  • It will be a legal requirement to stay at home
  • You can only leave your home for essential purposes – these include caring responsibilities, exercise, visiting your extended household, work and essential shopping
  • All schools will remain shut until February 1 – apart from for vulnerable children and children of key workers
  • Travelling across the border is banned – except for essential purposes
  • You can only meet one person from one other household outdoors – anyone 11 years old or younger does not count towards this
  • You are allowed to exercise as many times as you want each day
  • Places of worship will be forced to close – except for broadcasting a service, or conducting a funeral, wedding or civil partnership
  • Up to 20 people can attend funerals – although wakes are banned
  • Up to five people can attend a wedding or civil partnership

For more information, you can visit the Scottish Government's website.