The island has reached a major milestone in its fight against coronavirus, writes chief reporter Adrian Darbyshire.

With no new Covid-19 cases in 29 days, Chief Minister Howard Quayle said: ’Through your efforts we have reached a point where we can say with as much certainty as possible that we are Covid-19 free.

’It’s a milestone of great importance and you have got us there.’

Mr Quayle said we are now more than double the 14 days widely considered the maximum incubation period of the virus.

He said: ’Today our island has broken through a significant barrier in our fight against this invisible enemy, a fight which has led to the tragic loss of 24 people within our community and caused suffering to so many.

’People have lost loved-ones, others have lost livelihoods. People have been under real personal pressures - this must never be forgotten.’

He said: ’Thanks to your incredible efforts and sacrifices we’ve reached the stage described as the local elimination of the virus by our public health colleagues.’

He said as we near a full month without a case, the likelihood of the virus circulating in our community is exceptionally low and we are as close to 100% free as it is possible to be without a vaccine. ’For the moment this is as good as it gets,’ he said.

Mr Quayle said we cannot rule out seeing further cases, and we must remain vigilant and be ready to act swiftly should this happen.

He said this was a reminder that we must be ’incredibly cautious’ about considering any future changes to our border controls and the importance of 14-day home quarantine.

This week the island became the first place in the British Isles to remove social distancing. Final restrictions were lifted yesterday (Thursday) in the leisure and hospitality industries.

’You can have a pint at the local or a dinner out with the family,’ said Mr Quayle.

’Once again, you will now be able to enjoy trips to the theatre or marvel at the latest blockbuster in the cinema. Gyms can open as normal as can swimming pools.’

He encouraged people to support local businesses who have been unable to function normally during the pandemic.

’They need our support now,’ he said.

All children will be able to return to full-time education from Monday (June 22).

Also on Monday, the temporary 60mph speed limit will be lifted.

Mr Quayle said the government’s aim was to ask the Lieutenant Governor to lift the state of emergency by about Tuesday (June 23).