AS tougher Covid restrictions are implemented people and businesses in Wiltshire are urged to continue to play their part.

Yesterday (December 8) the government announced it will be moving forward with Covid Plan B in an effort to slow the spread of the Omicron variant.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned that Omicron is “growing much faster” than Delta and its doubling rate could be between two to three days.

The new measures imposed on England are the extension of mandatory face masks, Covid passes to enter some venues and advice to work from home.

The mask mandate comes into force on December 10, while work from home guidance begins on Monday, December 13 and Covid-19 passports will be mandatory from December 15.

READ MORE: One year on from first Covid vaccine given in Wiltshire

Parliament will discuss these measures next week, and is expected to vote on them on December 14.

A spokesman for the council said: “There are not many local businesses that will be impacted by the NHS Covid Pass measure, but Wiltshire Council is making contact with them to make sure they have what they need to implement the changes, and offer any support and guidance they may need.

“The NHS Covid Pass on the NHS App will become mandatory for entry into nightclubs and settings where large crowds gather – including unseated indoor events with 500 or more attendees, unseated outdoor events with 4,000 or more attendees and any event with 10,000 or more attendees.”

Leader of the council, Richard Clewer said: “Covid-19 continues to disrupt our lives but I’m very confident that the resolve of our local communities will see us through these uncertain times.

“Businesses and people alike have reacted quickly to anything that’s been asked of them during this pandemic and hopefully the additional measures being brought in will keep people as safe as possible, and ensure our health services can help those who need it.

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“I’d urge everyone to please get your vaccines, and the booster when it’s your turn, as they continue to be our best chance of getting back to how we want to live our lives.

“We know the uncertainty of the pandemic continues to cause stress and worry for people but, as ever, we’re here to support anyone who might need us.”

The council’s Wellbeing Hub at Wiltshire Council remains available in order to provide support and signposting and can be contacted on 0300 003 4576 or by emailing the address here.