Fife Council's co-leaders urge Fifers to stay safe and follow tougher coronavirus restrictions

The two co-leaders of Fife Council say people in Fife need to follow tougher coronavirus restrictions, which will come into force in the Kingdom from Boxing Day.

It was announced on Saturday by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon that the Kingdom, alongside the rest of mainland Scotland, will move into level four from Saturday for an initial period of three weeks.

Despite the forthcoming change, essential services from the local authority will continue, with help and support available if needed.

Most school pupils in Fife will start classes again in the New Year, but online from January 11.

Parents and carers will get updates from their schools.

Co-leaders David Alexander and David Ross said: "This is not what anyone would hope for over the Christmas holidays but the decision has been made and we need to follow the new rules.

"It’s important that we all continue to follow the public health guidance and help reduce the spread of the virus.

"We know it’s tough, particularly at this time of year, but we all have to work together to keep our loved ones safe and healthy.

"Our hope is that 2021 will bring more positive news but, in the meantime, we have to stick with it. 

"The Scottish Government has also advised that teachers, children of key workers and the most vulnerable children, will return to schools as planned on Wednesday, January 6.

"Most pupils will return to online learning on January 11 until January 18.

"Our school communities are geared up to move to online learning arrangements and parents and carers will be updated directly via their school.    

"Our reassurance to all Fifers is that essential services will continue and help and support is available if you need it.

"More information is on www.fife.gov.uk/coronavirus.

"If you, or someone you know is not online, call the Fife Covid Community Helpline on 0800 952 0330. We're open 24/7 to help and support people through emergencies too."