Oldhamers boosted as outdoor meetings and sports resume today

Outdoor meeting - in places like Alexandra Park (pictured) - and grass roots sports can resume today

Oldham might appear a little busier from today (Monday) as two households or groups of up to six people are now able to meet outside again as the stay-at-home Covid restrictions order comes to an end.

Outdoor sport facilities, including tennis courts and golf courses are also reopening, and organised outdoor sports can resume in the latest easing.

The next stage in the relaxation of the rules – set to take place no earlier than two weeks from today, April 12 – is being much more eagerly anticipated, however, with non-essential retail set to re-open from that date, and restaurants and pubs allowed to serve outdoors.

Vaccination-wise, the latest government figures show 423,852 UK adults received a first dose on Saturday (March 27), taking the overall number to 30,151,287 - with 233,964 having their second dose, bringing that total to 3,527,481.

Here’s what you can do from today, according to the latest easing of restrictions:

· People will be allowed to meet outside - including in private gardens - in groups of up to six, or as two households

· The stay-at-home rule has ended, although the government asks that people stay local as much as possible; holidays are still not allowed

· Outdoor sport facilities will reopen, including golf courses, tennis and basketball courts, and outdoor swimming

· Formally organised outdoor sports can restart

· Weddings can take place, attended by up to six people

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.