Hitchin and the whole of Hertfordshire have been placed into Tier 2 today, Thursday.

This means a number of restrictions remain in place but we have avoided the harshest restrictions put in place for Tier 3.

However, Hitchin is renowned for the quality of its restaurants, bars, pubs and eateries and hospitality has suffered great hardship since the start of the pandemic.

So what does Tier 2 mean for these venues?

They can open their doors

The main thing is that restaurants and cafes can open their doors once again.

After another month of being forced to shut this will come as a welcome relief.

Hospitality in Tier 3 remains takeaway only.

Food must be served

Things however still are tough for pubs and bars.

They are permitted to open however only when serving significant meals.

In other words you can't nip in for a quick pint unless you're having food with it.

No household mixing

You still however cannot mix with anyone outside your house inside these venues.

You can however still attend these venues within your household or support bubble.

In terms of your Christmas bubble you cannot go to hospitality venues with people from this group either, if they are not normally in your household.