Northern Ireland fans in the stands at Windsor Park
A crowd of 1,060 fans watched Northern Ireland face Slovakia in the Euro 2020 Championship play-off final early this month

A maximum of 4,000 fans will be allowed in outdoor events in less risky regions when the four-week lockdown in England ends on December 2.

Up to 2000 fans will be allowed to be in the second level regions but none at the third level.

Elite sport continued behind closed doors, but popular and amateur sport has been suspended since November 5.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday that events at the two lower levels would be able to resume “capacity limits and social distancing”.

Johnson was speaking via video link to the House of Commons to outline the new measures as part of the new government’s restrictions on Covid-19 virus in England.

Representatives will vote on the plans later this week.

“In the first and second levels, sporting and business events will be free for spectators to appeal in and out with limits of capacity and social distance,” Johnson said.

“Later this week, we will announce which areas will fall into what category – I hope Thursday – based on an analysis of cases in all age groups, especially those over the age of 60.

“Also, [it will involve] Given the rate at which cases are rising or falling, the percentage of those tested in the local population suffering from Covid and the current and projected stresses on the NHS. “

Culture Minister Oliver Dowden described the announcement as “a big step forward for the masses as we work towards greater capabilities”.

“Thanks to the flight attendants and the fans for showing that it can be done safely,” he added on social media.

More to track.

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