The Government has introduced a new three-tier system in England, with more cities expected to enter the “very high risk” category in the coming weeks – here’s what it means for you

Pubs and bars that are not serving meals have been ordered to close 

A new three-tier system to tackle a rise in coronavirus cases has come into force in England, prompting many businesses to close for at least a month.

Liverpool this week entered the “very high risk” tier 3 bracket, while London is set to join tier two on Friday as the transmission rate continues to surge.

Currently, the majority of the country is in the lowest tier – medium, meaning pubs, restaurants and bars can continue to trade until 10pm.

However, residents in Tier 2 – also known as “high risk” areas, are banned from mixing indoors.

In the highest tier, as has been the case in Liverpool, pubs and bars not serving food have been ordered to close until further notice.

The latest announcements come as Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to sign off further restrictions for millions more people in the north of England on Thursday, with Manchester set to join the next tier.