RICHMOND Council is urging residents to be "extra vigilant" after new covid-19 restrictions were announced by the government last night.

The 'Plan B' rules, recapped below, have been brought in due to rising case rates linked to the Omicron variant.

The restrictions aim to stop a rapid spread of the virus over winter and allow people more time to get vaccinated or have a booster jab.

The new rules state that people must:

- From Dec 10: Wear face coverings (unless exempt) in most indoor public places and on public transport, excluding hospitality settings.

- From Dec 13: Work from home where possible

- From Dec 15: Have a valid 'covid pass,' meaning proof of a negative test in the last 48 hours or double vaccination, to enter certain venues and events - if aged 18 or over. Other measures already reintroduced include mandatory face masks (unless exempt) on public transport, in shops, and other settings such as banks, post offices and hairdressers. Responding to the news, Richmond Council Leader Cllr Gareth Roberts said: "Unfortunately, these additional measures are necessary. Our COVID-19 rate has been way too high for a number of weeks. "In addition, with the arrival of a new variant, coupled with the other winter pressures on the NHS, it is incumbent on us all to change our behaviour. "There is absolutely no room for complacency, especially in the busy period leading up to Christmas. "We all need to think carefully about where we go and what we do to minimise the risks to ourselves and others. "It doesn't mean you can't go out for Christmas drinks, or you can't go shopping, or go to your child's nativity play. "But it does mean that if you are asked to wear a face covering – wear one. "Consider taking a lateral flow test before you mix with others, and importantly if you or your family display any symptoms, isolate immediately and take a PCR test." The news comes as Richmond borough's case rates continue to be well above average for London and England. In the 7 days to December 3, Richmond upon Thames had a rate of 668.7 per 100,000 population, compared to 451.7 per 100,000 for the capital and England's average of 493.3 per 100,000. Richmond Council states that the high rate of infections is largely driven by children of primary school age and those in secondary schools - and it is also seeing a rise in infections amongst people aged 25-59 years. The authority said: "The Council is working closely with local schools to support and manage outbreaks. "However, families are also encouraged to do their bit. "Ensuring that they, and their children are following the rules, but also regularly testing and self-isolating if necessary." They added: "Over the next few days, the Council will work closely to support local businesses as they move to introduce the new measures, whilst striving to support the NHS to ensure everyone has speedy access to a COVID-19 vaccination." Cllr Roberts said: "Richmond residents have been brilliant in coming forward for the COVID-19 vaccines. "Over 139, 000 people have had both doses, and over 62, 000 have had a booster. We also know that thousands of 12-15-year-olds have also been vaccinated through their schools. "However, there are still people who haven't had the jab and I cannot stress how important this is. "If you are in any way hesitant about having the vaccination – there are so many places where you can discuss your concerns or questions. Reaching out in the first instance to your GP or local pharmacist. "Over the days and weeks ahead there will be many locations in the nearby area to have the jab or your booster. Please don't delay. "We are all tired and exhausted of COVID-19, but this won't go away unless we all rally together."

Richmond Council advice to protect yourself and others from the virus:

- Get the coronavirus vaccine and booster as soon as you are eligible to do so

- Take regular lateral flow tests, including whenever you will be in a high risk situation that day or before you visit people who are at higher risk of severe illness if they get COVID-19

- Self-isolate immediately and book a PCR test if you have any COVID-19 symptoms

- When meeting others, try to do so outside. If meeting indoors, make sure there is plenty of ventilation.

- Wear face coverings on public transport, in shops and other settings in line with the Government instructions.

- In indoor settings where a face covering is not legally required, you should still continue to wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces where you may come into contact with other people you do not normally meet

- Wash your hands regularly and properly is an effective way of reducing the spread of viruses

- Work from home where possible