‘Don’t cross Border for a pint’

SCOTS are being warned not to cross the Border as shops and pubs reopen in England tomorrow.

The lockdown restrictions are being eased on what has been dubbed the ‘Glorious 12th’.

But a slower relaxation of rules is being rolled out in Scotland. Here, outdoor hospitality, retail businesses and close-contact services cannot operate until April 26.

A Scottish Government spokesman said: ‘While Covid levels remain high in some areas, and while a lot of people remain unvaccinated, we do not want the virus to spread from areas with relatively high prevalence to areas with low rates of infection.

‘That’s why the current travel restrictions, which prevent nonessential travel outside your local authority area, are important.’

Tomorrow, high streets in England will burst back into life as nonessential shops reopen, with pubs offering al fresco drinking.

But Deputy Chief Constable Malcolm Graham warned Scots against travelling south – although Police Scotland has no plans to establish border checks.

He said: ‘People should not travel outwith their local authority area except for essential purposes. I urge people to stay local and follow the regulations on gatherings. We will not hesitate to use enforcement powers as a last resort.’