THE North East could be spared the worst of new restrictions set to be announced on Monday, it is understood. 
According to reports Merseyside is expected to be the only part of England to face the tightest restrictions under the new "three tier" system due to be revealed on Monday.

Pubs and restaurants will be closed, apart from takeaway, the BBC reports. 

And only one household - or "bubble" - is likely to be able to meet indoors.

In Merseyside, alongside the closure of pubs and restaurants, travel will be limited into and out of the area for school, work, or transit only. 

People from outside Merseyside will not be allowed to stay overnight, but it is expected that leisure facilities can stay open.

Liverpool recorded 600 cases per 100,000 people in the week ending 6 October. The average for England was 74.

Under Tier 2 restrictions, people are likely to be discouraged to travel, and only one household or one bubble is expected to be allowed to meet indoors.

Tier 1 restrictions are expected to be similar to current national rules. 

That would allow up to six people of any age from multiple households to meet indoors and outdoors, with pubs and restaurants closing at 10pm. 

Stick with us throughout Monday as we live blog the latest developments.