Gatherings of more than six people in Richmond will become illegal under a tightening of restrictions.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to hold a press conference tomorrow morning (Wednesday, September 9) to announce the change in policy.

It comes amid fears of a spike in the number of new Covid-19 cases.

Social distancing guidelines already advise people not to meet outdoors in groups of more than six people.

But the law allows for general gatherings of up to 30 people.

This will be tightened from Monday, September 14 to make it easier for police to enforce the guideline and disperse large groups.

The new limit is expected to simplify the current rules as it will apply to a majority of indoor and outdoor gatherings, including in pubs and parks.

Safely organised sports matches, weddings, schools and funerals will be exempt.

Mr Johnson told the press ahead of his press conference: "We need to act now to stop the virus spreading.

"So we are simplifying and strengthening the rules on social contact – making them easier to understand and for the police to enforce."

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