RESIDENTS of a borough have been warned the battle to defeat coronavirus will be a 'long haul' .

Blackburn with Darwen Council leader Cllr Mohammed Khan said obeying the rules is the only way out of the Covid-19 crisis.

He has issued a joint statement with borough public health director Professor Dominic Harrison and chief executive Denise Park summarising local coronavirus regulations.

It says: “Following the Prime Minister’s update, there is no doubt we remain in this together for the long-haul.

“As we remain in the midst of a global pandemic, we must continue to take heed of the rules and guidance to stop this virus escalating out of control.

“As a reminder Blackburn with Darwen’s new local restrictions continue to mean residents must not mix with any other households in private homes or private gardens, except for those in a support bubble.

“Children under 14 will be able to be cared for by individuals outside of their immediate household as part of a care bubble that must be part of a consistent childcare relationship.

“Please remember the basic advice by continuing to regularly wash your hands, keep two metres apart and wear a face mask in public places.

“The advice remains the same in that anyone shielding in the eight wards in the North-East of Blackburn should continue to follow the existing guidance until October 5.

“If you have Covid-19 symptoms, you must get a test.

“Pubs, bars and restaurants must close at 10pm and only operate table service.

“Takeaways must also close their doors at 10pm. Deliveries can continue where orders are placed via telephone, a website, email or an app.

“The new rules mean the £10,000 fines for those who don’t quarantine or self-isolate now apply to businesses breaking rules.

“The fine for failing to wear a mask or breaking the 'rule of six' will be increased from £100 to £200 for a first offence.

“Staff in hospitality and retail need to wear face masks

“Customers at indoor hospitality settings need to wear masks except when seated at a table to eat or drink

“Passengers in taxis need to wear masks

“In the leisure, tourism and other sectors Covid-secure guidelines will be legal obligations.

“The 'rule of six' has been extended to all adult indoor team sports

“The guest limit for weddings will be reduced to 15 from 30 from Monday.

“The return to crowds at football matches, other sporting events and conference centres has been paused.

“Anyone who has tested positive for Covid, has symptoms or has been asked to self-isolate must stay in their own house and not leave their home.”