WIRRAL'S Council leader said she hopes people enjoy Christmas "safely" as the borough remains under Covid tier two restrictions.

Liverpool City Region, which includes Wirral, will stay in the Government's Covid Alert Tier 2 after Christmas Day.

The news was announced by health secretary Matt Hancock yesterday following a review of how the tier system - which aims to halt the spread of coronacvirus - was working.

The announcement comes into effect from 00:01 on Boxing Day.

In a Christmas wish,Wirral Council leader Cllr Janette Williamson, said: “Keeping Wirral and the other Liverpool City Region authorities under Tier 2 restrictions is vindication of the efforts that people and businesses, in partnership with authorities, in our area have been making over the last few weeks to tackle what was a worryingly high level of infection.

"However, while we will continue to enjoy the benefits that come with Tier 2 status, we cannot leave any room for complacency.

"Our rates are edging up once again, so we need to stay in control and keep doing the basics right to limit the potential for spreading the virus.

"We do not want to go back into Tier 3 unless absolutely necessary – not now, not in the new year.

"Please enjoy Christmas safely."