New Covid restrictions come into force across Scotland

Measures to limit the spread of the Omicron variant have come into force across Scotland on Boxing Day.

From 5am on December 26, attendance at large events has been limited.

Outdoor public events are capped at 500 people for at least three weeks.

Numbers at indoor public events are to be limited to 100 standing or 200 seated – but the restrictions do not apply to private events such as weddings.

The move makes sports matches, including football, effectively spectator-free.

The SPFL brought the Premiership winter break forward as a result with the Old Firm game due to be played on January 2 now moved to a month later.

All other New Year fixtures, including the Edinburgh and Dundee derbies, will also now be played in February.

It also means that large-scale traditional Scottish Hogmanay celebrations on December 31 – including Edinburgh’s Party at the Bells on Princes Street – have been called off.

Further restrictions come into place on Monday, December 27.

For at least three weeks, pubs and other venues selling alcohol will be required to offer table service only.

Indoor hospitality and leisure venues need to ensure one-metre social distancing between groups of people who are attending together.

Nightclubs must close for three weeks from 5am on December 27 unless they can operate “within regulation.”

People aged over 18 may also be asked to show proof of vaccination or a negative lateral test in order to enter certain entertainment venues.

By law in Scotland, everyone over the age of 12 must wear face coverings indoors, unless exempt, and the new guidance stresses that masks should be worn inside all businesses.

It was also announced that allowing staff to work from home where possible will again become a legal duty on employers.