Larger gatherings or indoor meet-ups at this stage of the pandemic could "increase the rate of infection and ultimately cost lives," Wiltshire's public health boss has warned.

As the first step on the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown is implemented on March 29, Wiltshire Council is updating people on the services available from that date, along with important public health advice.

From next Monday, people can meet outside only, in groups of up to six from different households (the rule of six) or two households of any size.

Read more: What you can and can't do from March 29

This includes private gardens, but people are urged to follow the advice closely and not break the rules.

The ‘stay at home’ rule will also end, but people should continue to work from home where possible and minimise the number of journeys they make.

Kate Blackburn, Director of Public Health, said: “It’s great that more people can meet up from March 29, but it’s really important that people follow the rules and only meet up outside in groups of up to six people, or two households, and that they remain at least two metres apart from people that are not in their household or support bubble.

“If people do not follow this guidance, larger gatherings or indoor meet-ups could increase the rate of infection and ultimately cost lives in Wiltshire.

“This is particularly important around Easter time, when hopefully we will have some good weather and people can meet outside.

"The whole of Wiltshire has worked so hard to bring the infection rate down here, and we need to keep following the rules to keep cases low.”

In five days, some outdoor sports facilities will reopen, and people can play formalised sports such as football and tennis. 

The council leisure facilities that will be reopening on Monday include the tennis courts at Springfield Community Campus in Corsham, the football pitches at Five Rivers Health and Wellbeing Centre in Salisbury for club block bookings, and the tennis courts at the Nadder Centre in Tisbury.

However, this does not include any changing or toilet facilities, and no leisure centre buildings will reopen on this date.

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