LOCKDOWN measures in the Glasgow area will be extended to East Dunbartonshire and Renfrewshire – amid concerns Covid-19 cases are continuing to soar.

The restrictions include banning households from meeting in each other’s homes and are already in force in Glasgow, West Dumbartonshire and East Renfrewshire.

Officials will also monitor pubs and restaurants and investigate whether the restruictions should be extended.

Earlier today, Nicola Sturgeon announced 146 new cases have been recorded in Scotland in the last 24-hour period – including 78 in the Greater Glasgow and Clyde NHS area.

Ms Sturgeon said the move was “regrettable but necessary in light of sharply rising numbers” of Covid-19.

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From midnight tonight, those in Glasgow, East Renfrewshire, West Dunbartonshire, Renfrewshire and East Dumbartonshire should not meet with people from other households in other people's homes.

Members of different households can continue to meet outdoors including gardens and in pubs and restaurants as long as guidance is followed.

Indoor visits to hospitals and care homes will be limited to essential visits and outdoor care home visits are allowed by three people from a maximum of two households.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said:“Over recent weeks, we have seen a continued increase in new Covid-19 cases in the Greater Glasgow and Clyde health board area.

“Having looked at where cases are being identified, the advice from the public health experts managing this outbreak is that restrictions on indoor gatherings should be extended to Renfrewshire and East Dunbartonshire and continue for at least a further seven days in Glasgow, East Renfrewshire and West Dunbartonshire."

She added: “I understand this will not be welcome news for people living in these areas but it is necessary to help us limit the spread of Covid-19. Acting now gives us the time and the space to protect people and get more control over the virus.

“I would ask everyone to be extra vigilant, to follow all guidance and to isolate and book a test if they have any symptoms. 

"Above all, I want to emphasise that getting a test – and even getting a negative result – is not a substitute for self-isolating. If you have symptoms, or if you are contacted by our Test and Protect team and told to do so, you will need to self-isolate.”

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde director of public health, Dr Linda de Caestecker, said:  “We know it’s not much fun right now not being able to socialise as we would like to and Covid has gone on much longer than any of us would want.  However the only way we are going to beat this is by working together and sticking by the rules.

"Please limit your contacts and by doing this you’re not only protecting yourself but also your friends and family.”

Scottish Greens West Scotland MSP, Ross Greer, said: “These measures are deeply unfortunate but absolutely necessary.

"We’re facing a really alarming situation here in the west of Scotland and unless these new guidelines are followed, a much stricter lockdown could become necessary. We all have to do what it takes to save lives and protect the health of those around us.

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“Self-isolating if anyone in your household has been in contact with a positive case is particularly important. Given this, the UK Government must immediately confirm that the furlough scheme will be extended.

"I’m sure the Scottish Government and local councils will offer other practical support to those affected but that income security is vital. We cannot have people taking risks and potentially spreading this virus because they are afraid of the consequences for their family if they lose their income.”