EAST Lothian will move down to Level 2 coronavirus restrictions from Tuesday next week.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon today told the Scottish Parliament that both East Lothian and Midlothian had seen enough improvement in infection rates to be taken down from Level 3 restrictions.

She said that the restrictions that had been in place on household gatherings and hospitality had made a difference, adding that without action the number of cases which could have been reported daily in Scotland would be at 3,000 now.

She said: “I am pleased to report that East Lothian and Midlothian have both seen a marked decline in infection rates, prevalence in these areas is significantly below the level for Scotland as a whole.

“On that basis, assuming no significant deterioration before then, I can confirm that East Lothian and Midlothian will move down from Level 3 to Level 2 from next Tuesday, November 24.”

In a slip of the tongue, the First Minister initially said "from Level 3 to Level 4" but quickly apologised and corrected herself.

ON THE LEVEL: What can be done in Covid protection Level 2

She added that the week's wait before the change came into force would allow the two local authorities time  to carry out additional health checks and work with NHS Lothian to ensure checks are in place.

Among the changes, the move to Level 2 will allow hospitality businesses to serve alcohol indoors with main meals, up to 8pm, and beer gardens and outdoor areas to sell alcohol (without food) until 10.30pm.

Meanwhile, 11 local authority areas – mainly in the west – are being placed in Level 4, the highest level of restrictions, in a bid to bring down high infection rates. Glasgow, Stirling and West Lothian are among the council areas affected.