PUTTING Warrington in the toughest tier of restrictions when lockdown ends next week will mean a 'miserable Christmas' for business.

That is the view of the head of the town's Chamber of Commerce.

Areas will find out on Thursday which tier they will be in when lockdown ends on December 2.

READ > The latest coronavirus rates in Warrington

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Monday that areas will be assigned tiers based on the latest data, including infection rates and pressure on the NHS.

Stephen Fitzsimmons, chief executive of Warrington Chamber of Commerce, said: "Warrington businesses are anxiously waiting to hear which tier the town will be in when national restrictions end at midnight on December 2.

"While it is encouraging to hear that most shops, gyms and places of worship will re-open in all areas, the low tier benefits will be frustratingly elusive if Warrington remains in Tier 3.

"Grass root sports clubs and the town’s football and rugby teams have all had to contend with periods of no spectators and therefore little to no income.

"The night time economy was struggling with lost revenue of 90 per cent before full closure.

"Simply moving back into Tier 3 will make it a miserable Christmas for most of our local businesses."