GARDEN PARTIES and sports are on the cards in England from today as the country hits its first phase of the planned reopening of the economy.
From today, 29 March, as part of Boris Johnson's optimistic road map out of the pandemic, the 'rule of six' will return for outdoor gatherings, whether in public parks or gardens.
This means that up to six people from many households can meet outside, or two full households can mix outdoors even if their total number goes above six.
The 'stay at home' order has ended, and outdoor sports have returned, including Golf, football, cricket and tennis, with outdoor swimming pools also having reopened their doors.
The first phase of the end of the lockdown also comes with temperatures expected to reach up to 22 degrees today, thoroughly welcome for those planning to reunite with friends and family outdoors, but Prime Minister Johnson has urged people to "remain cautious" and "continue to stick to the rules",The Journal reports.
The optimistic reopening, which aims to see all Covid-19 restrictions lifted on 21 June and the return of gigs and festivals, comes as the UK's vaccine roll-out continues to be a major success.
It is estimated that 57% of the UK population have now received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine, and the latest daily cases have dropped to levels last seen in September 2020.
Meanwhile, Ireland's government is to meet today to discuss its own easing of restrictions on 5 April, with the extension of the 5km rule, possible outdoor meetings and the return of construction all on the cards.
