We must grit our teeth and get through this challenge

News that Portsmouth, Gosport and Havant have been moved into the highest level of coronavirus restrictions will have come as a bitter blow to many people. It means friends cannot meet for pre-Christmas drinks indoors, or even in their own gardens.

And we are advised not to travel out of our area, so trips to see distant family are off.

Bars, clubs, cafes and restaurants must stay closed, except for delivery and takeaway.

The only glimmer of light in the celebrations this Christmas will be a five-day window from December 23-27 in which up to three households will be able to form a ‘Christmas bubble’ which can mix indoors and stay overnight.

Even then, the noises from the health experts are extremely discouraging, as they warn of a further surge in covid cases and the swamping of health services.

Many people may be thinking about cancelling plans they have already made.

Others will feel they should follow their hearts rather than their minds and go where they want to and see who they want to see at this precious time of year.

It is worth remembering that the tier rules are law under specific emergency legislation passed during the pandemic.

If you break the rules you could be handed a £100 fine, the cost of which will double up to a maximum of £6,400

Businesses breaking restrictionsface fines starting from £1,000 up to £10,000.

So the tier three rules are not to be taken lightly or trifled with.

Much as we may dislike it we have to abide by it.

Too many lives have been lost to take the risk of spreading the virus further, especially with a vaccine now within reach.

It is not the happy ending to the year any of us wanted. Possibly the most disappointing Christmas ever. But, boy, will we want to party in 2021!