BARNSLEY will remain in tier three restrictions during the Christmas period - but what does this mean for the borough?

Today, December 17, the government have announced that South Yorkshire will still be placed in tier three restrictions.

This means that bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants will remain closed - unless selling food via takeaway.

Indoor entertainment venues such as play centres, bowling alleys, cinemas, and theatres must close.

Outdoor attractions such as zoos, museums, theme parks and heritage sites must also close.

Places of worship will remain open but visitors should not socialise with people outside of their household or bubble.

Although, Barnsley families will still be able to see loved ones as up-to three households are allowed to gather inside from December 23 to December 27.

Dan Jarvis, Barnsley Central MP, said: “I know this decision is absolutely the last thing our communities and businesses wanted to hear, another hammer blow to follow so many others.

“After the endless grind and hardship of this extraordinary, terrible year, simply having an ordinary Christmas would have been a huge relief.

“For many of our businesses, these days and weeks are critical to their survival. I would reiterate that this decision was taken solely by central government.

“Once again, mayors and local leaders have been cut out of the decision-making process and not even afforded the basic courtesy of being consulted, or informed in advance, about this decision.

“These decisions are absolutely crucial to our residents, businesses and communities, but yet again they are being made about us, without us.

“I will keep fighting for more support to help our communities and our businesses get through this incredibly tough time.”