But which new tier of restrictions will cover Guildford borough or even whether the tiers will be applied to boroughs or whole counties remain uncertain.

Given Guildford’s size, at least one vaccination centre is likely to be opened here. Elsewhere, sports centres are to be used and Spectrum Sports Centre, with large indoor spaces, easy connectivity and plentiful car parking, seems suitable. The centre was used for food distribution in the first lockdown.

The latest Surrey statistics show the seven-day rate per 100,000 of population increased just in Reigate and Banstead and Runnymede. Only Waverley and Mole Valley had lower rates than Guildford last week but the rates remain volatile, and concentrated localised outbreaks can quickly change the position.

Two more Covid-associated deaths were also recorded in Guildford and Covid-associated hospital admissions continue to increase across the South East. Deaths and admissions lag behind infections so more can be expected.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the new tier system has to be more strict because the scientific evidence showed the previous one did not keep the R number below 1, meaning the epidemic kept growing.

He said he is “very sorry for the hardship” caused to business-owners, and the new tiers will now be a “uniform set of measures” with no local negotiations.

New Covid Tiers (from Dec 2)- Source BBC

“Christmas cannot be normal and there’s a long road to Spring,” Mr Johnson added. “But we have turned a corner and the escape route is in sight.

The Prime Minister, currently in isolation, joined the Parliamentary debate online yesterday, until the connection failed.

“We must hold out against the virus until testing and vaccines come to our rescue and reduce the need for restrictions.

“And everyone can help speed the arrival of that moment by continuing to follow the rules, getting tested and self-isolating when instructed, remembering ‘hands, face, space’ and pulling together for one final push to the Spring when we have every reason to hope and believe the achievements of our scientists will finally lift the shadow of this virus.”

Surrey County Council’s repeated advice is that residents should remain vigilant to slow spread of the virus and the best way to do that is to stay alert and adhere to the following guidance:

• Keep your distance if you go out (two-metres apart where possible);
• Wear face coverings; and
• Wash your hands regularly.

See also: Local Covid-19 Stats