HEXHAM'S MP has sympathised with the public after the North-East was placed under Tier 3 restrictions.

Speaking to the Courant on Thursday, Guy Opperman said: "I know how tough these restrictions will be, especially as we have been living under additional local restrictions since the middle of September.

"Northumberland has made great progress over recent weeks, and our infection rates have finally started falling.

"However, we have to face the fact that coronavirus cases in Northumberland - including in the Tyne Valley - are still very high. We all need to keep working together to further drive down our infection rates."

Mr Opperman assured residents that the Government will continue to provide "unprecedented financial support".

He added: "From the furlough scheme, which has been extended until March, to grants for businesses affected, we will also see the rollout of mass testing across the county, which has been successfully trialled in Liverpool and I hope will help us reduce infection rates locally too."