MP Robert Goodwill urges Scarborough borough residents to follow new lockdown rules

Last night the country was told once more that schools would shut, thousands of businesses would have to close and people should stay at home.

The level of coronavirus infection meant the move was inevitable, said Robert Goodwill, but by everyone following the guidance and rolling out more vaccines, he is hopeful the area can get back to "some semblance of normality" by Easter.

He said around 30 per cent of North Yorkshire's over 80s have received a jab against the disease already, and many more will follow.

"As fast as the vaccine can be produced, it's going into people's arms," he said.

"The lockdown was inevitable given the level of infection across the region.

"Unfortunately, the evidence I have received is that there are still people not complying with the existing restrictions in their private homes and people are having informal parties.

"This will only work if the people who haven't been complying with the existing restrictions step up to the plate and realise it's their responsibility to stop the transmission.

"It's desperately sad that we've had to close schools and children's education has been disrupted.

"My heart goes out to the hospitality industry who have had such a difficult time. The only consolation is this is not the busiest time for the coast.

"If we can get back some semblance of normality by Easter, that's something to be hopeful about."