Restrictions have loosened in the next stage of the Prime Minister's roadmap out of lockdown.

People across Kent are allowed to meet in groups of six and play a few sets of tennis just in time for the brighter weather.

The start of the Prime Minister's road map to normality was on March 8 when all school years were allowed to return and socially distanced one-to-one meetings were permitted outdoors.

Care home residents were also allowed one regular visitor as long as they took tests and wore PPE.

But what has changed today? And will any other rules be lifted soon?

Is the 'stay at home' rule still in place?

No, the 'stay at home rule' has finally been lifted after three months of lockdown.

However, there are still restrictions to keep in mind as the government's message changes to 'stay local'.

People should continue to work from home where they can. Where workers cannot, they have been advised to only travel when routes are less busy.

This will minimise unnecessary spread of the virus as restrictions begin to ease.

Travel abroad will continue to be prohibited for holidays to tackle the spread of new variants from across the world - with £5,000 fines being issued to those who break this rule.

This is especially important as the Prime Minister warned last week of a third wave arising in Europe which could begin to wash up on the UK's shores.

Who can I have social contact with?

Households can now meet outdoors or in private gardens, as evidence shows the virus is less transmissible in the fresh air.

Groups can meet with up to six people or limit themselves to just two households.

The rule of six does include children and people in bubbles with another household.

These rules are in place just in time for the Easter holidays, giving families more freedom during a much needed break.

Can I take part in outdoor sport?

Outdoor swimming pools, tennis, basketball courts and other outdoor sports facilities will be allowed to reopen.

Those employed at the facilities will return to work and visitors will be allowed to take part in formally organised outdoor sports.

Some of the facilities reopening in Kent include Mote Park Watersports Centre, St Andrew Watersports, Canoe Wild, Go Ape and Bedgebury Pinetum treetop courses.

Is it safe to loosen restrictions now?

Over a month ago Andrew Scott-Clark, Kent's public health director, said the goal was for Kent to reach an infection rate of 25 before the end of lockdown - similar to the levels during last summer.

Seven areas have an infection rate over 25 and six have a lower infection rate, as of March 20.

Overall Kent's infection rate is 31.6 which has risen 13% in the last week and Medway's is 32.7.

So although the county is not quite there yet, we still have two weeks before restrictions are lifted more significantly.

Claire Nix, assistant chief constable of Kent Police, said: "As we approach this milestone combined with the warmer weather, it is important we remain focussed and don’t become complacent to the rules.

"The government’s roadmap applies to everyone and should be followed, it is the key for us all to get back to a normal way of life and we seek everyone’s support in continuing to follow the rules."

When are restrictions loosening again?

If cases stay low, restrictions will relax again on April 12.

This will allow all non-essential shops to reopen - including hairdressers and nail salons.

Libraries, community centres, outdoor attractions and outdoor hospitality venues can also open two weeks from today -as well as indoor leisure centres where people can visit with their support bubble.

For the latest coronavirus news and advice, click here.

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