Why is Leeds in Tier 3? The Government's explanation for why the city is staying in the toughest Covid restrictions

There had been hopes that the Government would ease restrictions in Leeds after a big drop in cases, but Health Secretary Matt Hancock only moved two areas - Bristol and North Somerset and Herefordshire - to lower tiers.

The rate of cases per 100,000 in Leeds is around 138, which is below many areas of the country that are in Tier 2.

But the case rate is only one of the factors considered when making tier changes.

And the neighbouring cities of Bradford and Wakefield also have higher case rates than Leeds.

The next review date is December 30.

Leeds Council has said it is "disappointed" that the city is to remain in Tier 3 over Christmas and that it could have "safely" moved down to Tier 2.

But the Government disagreed, saying there was a risk West Yorkshire would have to be put back up to Tier 3 again very quickly if changes were made now.

A statement on the Government's website said: "Since the end of national restrictions the situation in West Yorkshire has improved though is still of concern.

"Case rates are decreasing by more than 10% in all five local authorities.

"Case rates in over 60s are stable or decreasing across West Yorkshire but remain above 150 per 100,000 in Bradford and Wakefield. Positivity rates are falling across the area.

"The epidemiology indicators remain too high for de-escalation to Tier 2.

"De-escalating too early where there is still high prevalence in the community poses a risk that this area is only in Tier 2 for a very short period of time before re-escalation is needed.

"Covid admissions, bed occupancy and critical care occupancy in the area are falling steadily."

What is the Covid situation in Leeds now?

- The current rate in the city is 138.2 which is very slightly up but over the last seven days there has been a five per cent decrease.

- Leeds is 195th in the country.

- The city’s positivity rate has gone down and it’s now at 5.3 per cent.

- The rate for over 60s has gone down by 14% in the last week, at 121.7.

- Leeds has now had over 1,115 deaths but rates in care homes and schools are now stable.

- Over 3,000 vaccines have been given across the city so far.

What is Tier 3 and what does it mean for Leeds?

- Household mixing is banned anywhere indoors

- Two households can mix in limited circumstances in parks and fields, but only if observing the rule of six

- Non essential shops can reopen following the national lockdown - Tier 3 allows shops to be open

- Pubs, bars and restaurants cannot open their doors - they must operate for collection and delivery only

- People in Tier 3 are advised not to travel outside their area

- Hotels must close and overnight stays outside the local area are not permitted

- Wedding receptions are banned in Tier 3 areas but ceremonies can go ahead with 15 guests

- Funerals will allow up to 30 guests only

- Large sport events are banned from taking place but drive-in events like drive-in cinemas will be allowed