The government is encouraging people to take lateral flow tests before Christmas parties.

It has said this will help to ‘enable events to go ahead safely’ and to ‘help minimise disruption to hospitality businesses’ this festive period.

In a statement, the government said: ‘As we approach the Christmas period, it is expected that social activity will increase, and household mixing will become the norm at Christmas parties and social gatherings both in and out of the home.’

Residents are reminded to take the following steps to stay safe:

- Take an LFD test twice a week to regularly monitor your Covid status

- Take an LFD test before you attend social events and gatherings, where the chance of transmission could be higher (this includes when visiting friends or family who may be vulnerable)

- Take up the Covid and flu vaccinations and booster when you are offered them – this may be earlier than previously anticipated and provides the greatest defence we have against Covid-19

- Wear a face covering when you’re in indoor public spaces

- Continue to ventilate homes and workplaces well – socialise outdoors or in ventilated spaces when you can

- Always stay at home if you are unwell or if you have Covid symptoms - isolate immediately and book a PCR test.