The announcement that Bristol's coronavirus alert level has been stepped up to 'Tier 1+' has caused much confusion already.
When Boris Johnson set out the new system for local lockdowns, Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3 were the only levels outlined, with no additional categories in between.
Bristol has been in Tier 1 since then, despite calls to level up in response to a surge in cases over the past couple of weeks.
In a press briefing this afternoon (Wednesday, October 28), Bristol mayor Marvin Rees announced that the city is now at 'Tier 1+' and will introduce more measures to reduce the spread of the virus.
The creation of the "plus" system appears to have happened locally, with a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care confirming they are not considering the introduction of a “plus” system.
The response to the new system so far on social media has been one of confusion and bewildered amusement.
There is clearly nothing funny about coronavirus, nor the concerning rise in cases Bristol is seeing at the moment.
In a crisis, though, we all need some light comedic relief.
Bristol Live is trying to find out more about today's announcement and give you a more serious breakdown of what it really means for the people working and living here, and we are awaiting answers from authorities.
In the meantime, here is a snapshot of some of the baffled reaction on Twitter, where 'Tier 1' is now trending:
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson told Bristol Live: “There are three Local Covid Alert Levels which are enshrined in law and we are not considering the introduction of a “plus” system.
“Bristol is currently at medium and local leaders have the authority to bring in some additional measures for their area and we welcome local efforts to break chains of transmission.”
