WOULD-BE visitors to Wales will be disappointed as the principality has today announced a 'firebreak' lockdown aimed at stemming rising coronavirus cases.

While Lancashire is currently enduring a tier three lockdown, the highest variety of lockdown in England, Wales has gone much further with the devolved administrations new rules.

The lockdown will last for 17 days and aims to ensure people in Wales stay in their homes as much as possible.

Speaking to potential visitors, Welsh first minister Mark Drakeford said: "I'm afraid my message to them is that they must not come.

"Regrettable as it is, this is not the time to do it.

"We will need your help as much as we will need the help of people here in Wales."

He added: "The aim of the firebreak period is to get us through to Christmas.

"Beyond that, it simply wouldn't be sensible, given the speed at which things change to be offering people guarantees of how the future may unfold."

Under the new regulations:

  • Wales is to go into a 17-day "sharp, deep" lockdown from Friday
  • All non-essential shops, leisure facilities and places of worship in Wales must close
  • Welsh primary schools and years 7 and 8 will return as usual after half term but older students must study at home
  • All mixing between households in Wales will be banned, whether indoors or outside