Full details of a second national lockdown have now been officially announced.

A Downing Street press conference was pushed back twice this evening, eventually beginning at around 6.45pm. 

Information has now been confirmed onwhat it will mean for people living in England when the new rules come into force.

As previously reported, it had been widely believed the greater restrictions would begin on Wednesday, but lockdown will actually begin at one second past midnight on Thursday.

It will be a month-long lockdown, continuing until December 2, as a last ditch hope to 'save Christmas'.

Read next: 3 reasons PM has been told to 'act now' on lockdown - from deaths to Christmas

Importantly, the furlough system will be extended throughout November, until December. 

Non-essential shops and hospitality businesses such as pubs and restaurants will be forced to close - although they will still be allowed to offer takeaways. Click and collect will also still be allowed. 

Businesses judged to be essential, such as food stores and supermarkets, will remain open and will not be forced to close off areas of 'non-essential' items, like in Wales.

Schools and universities will be allowed to remain open.

Much like under Tier 3 restrictions - currently the most stringent - there will be no mixing of people inside homes, except for childcare and other forms of support.

Read a full account of the press conference here: Boris Johnson announces second lockdown - full details

As of this Thursday you can only leave home for:

  • Education.
  • Work.
  • Exercise and recreation outdoors. With one person from another household is allowed. 
  • Medical appointments. 
  • To escape injury or harm.
  • Providing care. 

Single-adult households can still form support bubbles, and children can go between homes of parents.