Ribble Valley MP reacts to Boris Johnson's latest coronavirus restrictions

Since yesterday, Ribble Valley residents have been plunged into a Lancashire lockdown and pubs and restaurants are facing a 10pm curfew from Thursday onwards.

The clampdown covers the whole of Lancashire, with the exception of two thirds of the seaside resort of Blackpool.

Under the new rules, residents in Lancashire are not allowed to socialise with different households in homes, private gardens, public parks, restaurants, and pub beer gardens.

While Mr Evans, who is also deputy speaker of the House of Commons, acknowledges the good work by residents in the Ribble Valley to help keep infection rates low, he admitted the situation elsewhere n Lancashire had left the prime minister with a tough balancing act.

He said: "The Prime Minister had to introduce tougher measures for Lancashire, including the Ribble Valley because the trend is clearly worrying. Infection rates are rising across England, but particularly in the north east, north west and Yorkshire. This is not a repeat of the build-up to lockdown. Cases are at a much lower level and they are growing more slowly.

"The majority of my constituents have done what they can to help and I hope, eventually, the tighter measures are lifted selectively. I would urge people to continue following social distancing rules, wash their hands regularly and wear a face covering in enclosed spaces."

Mr Evans went on to say he was "hugely disappointed" by Boris Johnson's decision to cap weddings at 15 guests after yesterday's announcement and will be speaking to the Prime Minister to reconsider his decision.

He commented: "I will speaking to the Prime Minister asking him to increase the number of weddings guests allowed back from 15 to 30 so brides, grooms and their families can enjoy their special day in a covid-safe manner."