MAJOR outdoor commemoration events planned for Remembrance Sunday in Wirral are off this year.

It follows the Government's ruling that outdoor mass gatherings should not take place where social distancing cannot be maintained between different households.

The restrictions mean the annual ceremonies and parades - which can see thousands of people gather to pay their respects - will not take place this year.

Residents are instead being asked to pay their respects from their homes.

Cllr Janette Williamson, Leader of Wirral Council, said: "It is with a very heavy heart that we have had to cancel these important events but we could not bring thousands of people together and risk exposing them to coronavirus - people's health has to be our priority.

"Remembrance Sunday is hugely important for families around the borough and whilst we can’t mark this year's commemorations together, I invite residents to join us remotely as we pay our respects at home."

Although the decision to cancel services applies to all outdoor commemorations, many indoor church services will still go ahead on the day in line with current social distancing protocols.

Further details of how to join Wirral Council's virtual service will be released shortly.

A spokesrson for the authoity added: "Stricter measures to stop the spread of Covid-19 have recently come into force in our city region and many other parts of the UK.

"As the situation is changing rapidly, Remembrance Sunday event organisers are being instructed that they should not arrange any outdoor commemorations this year."

Related story: https://www.wirralglobe.co.uk/news/18787524.new-tier-3-lockdown-restrictions-wirral-merseyside/