Large events in West Dunbartonshire are to be scrapped in a bid to curb the rise in infection levels across Scotland.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is currently making a statement on the current state of the pandemic as she explained Omicron continues to drive the increase in cases.
She advised that in the last 24 hours, 5242 new Covid cases had been confirmed across the country as she urged people to limit social interactions in the lead up to Christmas and following this weekend.
And she confirmed the restrictions on large-scale events which means indoor standing events will be limited to 100, indoor seated events restricted to 200 and outdoor events curbed at 500 people.
It remains to be seen the exact impact on local football, including Dumbarton FC, however the First Minister explained that these restrictions would make matches “effectively spectator-free”.
Ms Sturgeon said: “None of these are being proposed lightly but we do consider them necessary to help stem the increase in cases, safeguard health and protect the NHS, the emergency services and the economy.
“First, from December 26 - inclusive of that date - for a period of up to three weeks, we intend to place limits on the size of public events that can take place. This does not apply to private life events such as weddings.
“For indoor standing events, the limit will be 100, for indoor seated events it will be 200 and for outdoor events, 500 seated or standing.
“Physical distancing of one metre will be required at events that go ahead within these limits.
“This will of course make sports matches, including football, effectively spectator-free over this three-week period.
“And it will also mean unfortunately that large-scale Hogmanay celebrations will not proceed.”
Non professional indoor sports for adults will also be prohibited.
And hospitality venues will be restricted to table service only for those serving alcohol and businesses will be asked to ensure one-metre distancing between groups of customers.
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