Staffordshire Moorlands District Council is urging residents to use this time during the second lockdown to stick to the rules to bring down the infection rate in hopes of returning to some normality

Council leader, Cllr Sybil Ralphs, said: "We've all had to make big changes to how we work and live this year and we don't underestimate the impact this has had, and continues to have, on our communities and local businesses.

"But the fact remains that this virus is still very much present in our communities and the only way to stop it spreading is to stay at home as much as possible for the time being and, when you go out for essential reasons, following the basic rules of hands, face, space.

"We've all missed out on doing so many of the things we enjoy with the people we love - something that's brought into sharp focus as we approach Christmas - and I thank everyone for their continued efforts.

"Now is the time to show our strength, double our resolve and stick to the rules so that we can, hopefully, get back to more normal lives in the near future."

The enhanced cleaning and other safety measures the council implemented after the first lockdown have meant that many of the things that had to close earlier in this year can stay open this time around.

Playgrounds remain open but events in parks involving more than two people, such as park runs, cannot take place.

Cllr Ralphs added: "Where we can we're keeping much-valued local facilities like playgrounds and public toilets in operation and, of course, the council remains very much open for business.

"Many of our services are available via our website and people should continue to contact us for help and support from our teams."