A number of lockdown restrictions in Greater Manchester are set to be eased next week.
The government has announced that casinos, bowling alleys and other leisure facilities can re-open everywhere in Greater Manchester - except for Bolton - from Tuesday.
Socially distanced indoor performances will also be able to resume, and remaining restrictions on certain close contact services such as treatments on the face will be lifted.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said that the easing has been made possible due to the hard work of 'residents, communities and local authorities', to bring infection rates down.
He added that 'further work' is now underway with local leaders in Bolton, which for now remains subject to more stringent measures, after infection rates soared in the borough.
Mr Hancock said: “I’m very glad we’ve been able to make this change, working with local councils, because local lockdowns are working to control the virus.
"We are seeing improvements in the rates of infection thanks to the huge efforts made by local communities and authorities working alongside our effective Test and Trace system.
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“We must stay alert and I continue to encourage everyone to play their part by following local rules, self-isolating and requesting a free test as soon as they get any symptoms.
“The rates of infection remain too high in Bolton for these easements to be applied and further work is now under way with local leaders.
“Today’s announcement is a testament to the hard work of residents, local communities and local authorities who have all worked to bring down the rates of infection.
"To maintain this good progress, it is important local residents continue to wear face coverings where necessary, practise good hygiene and adhere to national social distancing rules.
“The rate of infection is still too high in Greater Manchester, parts of Lancashire and West Yorkshire to allow lifting restrictions on gatherings.”
