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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Alasdair Clark

You can now meet up to two different households at a time outside, Nicola Sturgeon has announced

Scots are now able to meet up to two different households outside, but gatherings should still be limited to no more than eight people.

The First Minister has announced the changes as part of phase two of easing the coronavirus restrictions.

Scots have spent more than 10 weeks under the lockdown rules, and the small changes are likely to bring great relief to many.

People are still advised against gathering indoors, and strict social distancing should still be followed. People will be able to go inside to use the toilet when meeting in someone else’s garden, the First Minister added.

A group of friends cooking together at a barbecue with their family in a courtyard. (Getty Images)

It also does not need to be the same three households which meet, although it is advised you only meet up to two different households in one day.

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The First Minister also urged Scots to stay within a roughly five-mile radius of their home for recreation, but not for meeting family. So, you will be able to travel to see family members who live further away.

Those living alone can now also create an extended family group, as in England. Nicola Sturgeon said, explaining the change:

"Anyone who lives on their own or lives with children under 18 will be able to form an extended household group with one other household.

"People will be able to meet indoors without physical distancing and can stay overnight."

You can read a full liveblog of today's briefing here.

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