South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has commented on the latest Covid-19 update.

Speaking on Tuesday, the First Minister confirmed that as from Saturday, Dumfries and Galloway and the Borders will drop to level 1 restrictions.

This means eight people from three households can meet indoors and 12 people from 12 households can meet outdoors.

Soft play centres and funfairs are allowed to re-open and 100 people are allowed to attend weddings or funerals.

However, the First Minister also confirmed that Midlothian; South Lanarkshire; South and East Ayrshire will remain in level 2 restrictions.

Colin Smyth said: “We have now been living in the shadow of Covid-19 for more than a year, so the news that restrictions are being eased further in Dumfries and Galloway and the Borders will be welcomed by many, while those remaining at level 2 will be feeling very disappointed.

“However, we must not forget that until we are all vaccinated, Covid-19 is still out there and we must take precautions to keep ourselves and our communities safe.

“Moving to Level 1 restrictions will mean more normality but with talk of a third wave, we must remain vigilant.

“Also, while the Covid-19 pandemic is first and foremost a health crisis, it is also a terrible economic crisis which will continue for a long time to come. The UK and Scottish Government need to get their act together and ensure support is in place to get local firms through the coming months.”