HAMPSHIRE residents have been urged to continue to follow the rules as lockdown ends today.

New restrictions are going to be in place from today as Hampshire and Southampton are now in Tier 2 High Alert.

This means that shops will re-open and people can meet outside as long as the follow the rule of six.

But indoor meetings are banned and pubs and bars can open only if they operate as a restaurant.

But county leaders are asking residents to continue to follow the guidelines.

Last week county bosses said the weekly rate of infection across Hampshire started to decrease following a second national lockdown.

As residents will now face a new set of restrictions, Simon Bryant, director of public health at Hampshire County Council, said: "It is encouraging that the rate of increase of the virus has reduced across all of our county during the recent period of national restrictions, but the number of cases is still going up, and this is a concern as we head into winter. By continuing to follow the Tier 2 (High) guidance, we can all help to control infection rates and protect each other’s health. Our aim now, is to get back down to Tier 1 (Medium) with the additional freedoms this brings, including for our economy and local businesses."

Southampton Itchen MP Royston Smith said this is not the time "to give up".

He said: "I know it’s tough. I know people are missing their families and some are struggling with their mental health. But we are nearly there. Treatments are improving. We will start vaccinating in days. Together we are defeating this virus and soon, life will return to normal. Don’t give up now.”

The news comes as the vaccine rollout in the UK is expected to begin before Christmas, subject to regulatory approval.

But Southampton Test MP Alan Whitehead said: "I do think that a strong regime of restrictions is needed until mass vaccinations are well underway. However I don't think the tier system is without its flaws."

Rebecca Handley, deputy executive director at GO! Southampton, said city businesses will extend their opening hours this month.

She said: "Businesses have worked tirelessly to prepare for a safe reopening. We encourage visitors to return to the city to support local businesses whilst shopping responsibly and enjoy the extended shopping hours offered by businesses across the city."