Shielding rules are to be relaxed from July 6, the government has announced as part of the easing of the lockdown.

Residents of Teddington who have been shielding since lockdown began in March will be able to meet up for the first time but only in groups of six and outdoors.

Social distancing will still have to be maintained but today's news will come as a great relief to those most vulnerable in the area and who have been unable to see their loved ones in over three months.

People who were shielding belong to the groups most susceptible to coronavirus such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.

Now a stroll through Bushy Park with friends or a trip to Teddington Lock with close family and friends will be allowed.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock acknowledged that the strict rules put in place for those shielding was a 'big ask' but now the scheme will be relaxed completely on August 1.

This means those formerly shielding will be allowed into shops and potentially even back to work if they cannot do so from home.

The news comes as new cases in London have fallen to below 20 daily according to the Greater London Authority.