As we already know, the Government will be relaxing Coronavirus restrictions over Christmas to give people more freedom to mix with family and friends.

This will be done in the form of Christmas "bubbles" over a five day period. But when is the bubble period, who are we allowed to see and what are the rules?

Here is everything you need to know:

When can we form our bubble?

The temporary Christmas bubbles can be formed for five days, from Wednesday, 23rd December to Sunday, 27th December.

How many households are allowed in a bubble?

Up to three households can mix in each bubble. There is no limit to the actual number of people who can be in one bubble, as long as they are still only from a maximum of three households. However, guidance for England states that the number of people in each bubble should be kept as small as possible.

Also, if you have already formed a support bubble with another household before Christmas (such as if you live alone), that only counts as one household, so people in these support bubbles would still be allowed to meet with up to two other households over Christmas.

Do we still need to socially distance?

No. Those who are in the same bubble can mix indoors in private homes and stay overnight. You can also meet in your garden, in public outdoor spaces, and in places of worship.

Will there still be travel restrictions over the bubble period?

No - travel restrictions over this period will also be removed. You can visit friends and family in your bubble anywhere in the UK, although extra public transport won't be laid on, and people have been asked to plan their trips in advance.

Can I change my bubble at any point over the five day period?

You can't change your bubble - people are only allowed to be in one bubble, and bubbles can't be changed over the five days.

Is there anywhere I can't go with people in my bubble?

You still can't go to pubs, restaurants or entertainment venues with people in your bubble.

What about people who aren't in my bubble?

You can continue to meet people who are not in your Christmas bubble outside your home, according to the rules of the tier you are in. The usual Coronavirus tier system of rules will apply when it comes to seeing people outside of your bubble.

Biddulph and the rest of Staffordshire is currently in Tier 3, although tiers around the country are to be reassessed on December 16th. Click here for an explanation of the rules around Tier 3 restrictions.

What if I'm self isolating or have symptoms?

You cannot join a Christmas bubble if you are self isolating or have symptoms of Coronavirus.