The decision to lockdown Greater Manchester has been branded a 'farce' and described as 'too little too late' as residents react to the new restrictions.
With a few hours notice Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced on Thursday night that Greater Manchester, as well as parts of West Yorkshire and East Lancashire, would be subject to new rules following an increase in coronavirus cases.
He said: "The spread is largely due to households meeting and not abiding to social distancing."
As a result people from different households are not allowed to meet each other in private homes or gardens.
There are many unanswered questions - with people unsure what the news means. Dozens of people have questioned what the move means for visits to pubs and gyms, reports Manchester Evening News.
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham has urged people not to be 'selfish' and stick to the rules.
Thousands of Manchester Evening News readers have had their say on Facebook and Twitter.
Ian Robinson said: "Everybody shouldn't be tarred with the same brush - there are towns in Greater Manchester that have done as told and have low infection rates."
Rebecca Mosbach posted: "Not surprised. This is what happens when people can't obey the rules. Waltzing around shopping centres without masks. No regard for others."
Reader Rick Slatter said: "It’s a farce given all the multiple mixing in pubs and restaurants. I doubt many will stick to this."
While Daniel Jones posted: "Telling people they can’t see their family but they can go Asda, McDonald's, pub, restaurant or whatever. This government needs to get a grip."
Julie Barnett's question was blunt.
"Why won't people get a grip and do the right thing?," she said.
Collette Letty Daley's opinion was clear: "Too little too late. Should have locked down earlier than we did - and worn masks too."
Terry Mutch said: "I'd like ask why Greater Manchester [is facing restrictions as a whole] when many of the 10 areas have low levels?"
Wendy Brown added: "Unfortunately, I expect the only people who will take notice are those of us already doing our best to follow the rules.
"Those who have flouted them all the way through will continue to do so."
Joely Hodgkins summed up many reader's thoughts.
"Need more clarity on what is and isnt allowed," she said.
MPs are trying to get answers.
Manchester Central's Lucy Powell tweeted: "Tonight’s news has led to many, many questions about what it does and doesn’t mean.
"My understanding is that this is a precautionary measure to stop people going to other households. It doesn’t affect other activities like travel, childcare, going to work, hairdressers etc."
