Criticism of Tier 2 across East Anglia

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There's growing criticism of the Government's decision to put all of East Anglia in the high-risk Tier 2 of covid restrictions.

For many struggling businesses it's another blow as they battle to survive the year of the pandemic.

Households can't mix indoors and there are greater restrictions for the hospitality industry. Yet the R rate across the East has fallen to around 1 and infections in many areas are well below the national average.

Stowmarket is one of several places in mid Suffolk left feeling aggrieved.

The area has the lowest infection rate in the Anglia region but it's still found itself in tier two.

The Government says that while the picture in Suffolk is improving rising rates in Ipswich are a cause for concern

Trudy's Sandwich Bar Credit: ITV Anglia

Trudy is working double shifts to keep her business, Trudy's Sandwich Bar, running with takeaways.

She's not sure her depleted workforce could manage the table service needed to comply with restrictions next week and she wants clarity about what lies ahead.

The Walnut Credit: ITV Anglia

Just down the road is The Walnut, an award-winning pub specialising in real ale.

The only food they offer is nuts, but in tier two, they can't pour a pint unless it's alongside a substantial meal, so they can't open

The tiers will be reviewed on December the 16th.