The Isle of Wight enters Covid-19 tier three from today, Boxing Day (December, 26).

The Island had previously been in Tier One - the lowest of the government's regulations - but lost that status after cases of coronavirus began climbing rapidly on the Island.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock made the announcement on Wednesday.

The whole of the south east of England has entered Tier Four today, meanwhile, after a new variant of Covid-19 was discovered - one that appears to be transmitted more quickly.

Scroll down to learn more about the new rules...

Reacting to the Tier Three news, Isle of Wight Council leader Dave Stewart said: "The data suggests the new variant of the virus transmits more easily than other strains but there is currently no evidence it is more likely to cause severe disease or mortality.

"Sadly, I fear the coronavirus variant may have already reached the Island as our new case rates are increasing rapidly."

Simon Bryant, the Island's director of public health, said: "We need to do all we can to prevent the spread of infection.

"Remember, around one in three people with Covid-19 have no symptoms, so could be spreading the virus without realising."

Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely said he had questioned why the Island was placed in Tier Three, rather than Two and said: "I am disappointed but not surprised.

"It was inevitable we were going up to a higher tier. 

"I have not yet received a satisfactory answer about why we were placed in Tier Three rather than Tier Two, and I look forward to receiving one.

"We do not know what will happen next year, and it may be that much of the UK will move into Tier Four or its equivalent."

What does Covid Tier Three mean?

Isle of Wight County Press:

Tier Three means much tougher rules and regulations, forcing many Islanders to abandon their Boxing Day and closing pubs, bars and cafes to everything except takeaway service.

The major changes for the Isle of Wight centre around meeting up and going out.

We cannot now meet socially, indoors or outdoors, with anybody we do not live with, or have a support bubble with(exemptions apply).

Hospitality settings, including bars, pubs, cafes, restaurants, and social clubs must close, except for takeaway, delivery and click and collect services.

Some exemptions apply, including school canteens.

Accommodation such as hotels, B&Bs, campsites, holiday lets and guest houses must close, but may still house people who are isolating away from their families, among other exemptions.

Entertainment venues, including bingo, cinemas, indoor play centres, zoos, museums, snooker halls must close.

However, outdoor tourism and entertainment venues can stay open, as well as libraries and community centres and businesses including hairdressers and barbers and beauty salons.

There are some exemptions when it comes to meeting up.

Check the government rules in full HERE.