Lancashire facing tougher lockdown restrictions

The government is expected to announce tougher lockdown restrictions for most of Lancashire as the county's coronavirus cases continue to rise.

Earlier this week the North East became subject to increased restrictions including curfews for pubs and restaurants, limited use of public transport and a ban on meeting residents from other households.

Reports are now emerging that much of Lancashire - with the exception of some parts of Blackpool - will follow to some degree as of this weekend.

There are also separate reports which suggest new nationwide rules may be put in force in the near future. 

Coronavirus figures for both Lancashire and the UK are trending upwards. The BBC has reported that the virus is understood to be doubling every seven to eight days, with more than 3,300 new cases reported on Thursday.

An official government announcement is expected later today (Friday).

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