HEREFORD'S MP has said he's longing for usual freedoms after it was revealed the city will face tier 2 coronavirus restrictions once lockdown ends on Wednesday.

Jesse Norman, Conservative MP for Hereford and South Herefordshire said the decision to put the county under tier 2 restrictions was made "at the top of Government on expert advice" and did not say he disagreed with the decision.

Government documents show Herefordshire needed to face the tier 2 restrictions due to the high infection rate, but as this is falling tier 3 would not have been appropriate.

But as the county, with a population of around 190,000 people, faces restrictions on socialising, treasury minister Mr Norman has said he's longing for "usual freedoms".

“These decisions about tiering have been made at the top of Government on expert advice, and are geared to the level of disease and the vulnerability of a given population.

"The Government’s overriding goal has been to protect public health and prevent a third wave of the virus."

LATEST UPDATES: Herefordshire's coronavirus restrictions tier revealed

He added: “As Hereford Times readers will know, I and my colleagues in the Treasury have been working non-stop since March to protect the economy and support people’s jobs and livelihoods.

"We were prepared for the UK to emerge from the pandemic in the Autumn, but the second wave of Covid-19 has meant that was not possible.

“I am very acutely aware of the impact of these restrictions on businesses across Herefordshire. Like everyone else, I am longing for the moment when we can all return to our usual freedoms.

"In the meantime, I continue to press the case for our county vigorously and at the highest levels.”

TIER 2 LATEST:

When lockdown ends next Wednesday, people in Herefordshire will not be allowed to socialise with anyone they do not live with, or who is not in their support bubble, in any indoor setting.

Socialising in a group of more than 6 people outside, including in a garden or a public space, will also not be allowed.

CORONAVIRUS LATEST:

Businesses and venues can continue to operate, as long as it's in a Covid-Secure manner.

Pubs and bars must close, unless operating as restaurants. Hospitality venues can only serve alcohol with substantial meals with last orders at 10pm.