AS THE Isle of Wight leaves lockdown and enters Tier One tomorrow, several memes and social media posts have joked about the possibility of people travelling here to enjoy freedoms not allowed in the majority of the UK.
Only the Isle of Wight, Isle of Scilly and Cornwall have been placed in Tier One — where pubs and restaurants can serve alcohol without the need for a 'substantial meal' alongside it, as is the case in Tier Two.
The rules have led to suggestions of booze cruises to the Isle of Wight — and County Press readers have been sending in memes that suggest it.
All ports of entry to the Island — Portsmouth, Southampton and Lymington — are in Tier Two and there are no legal rules stopping cross-Solent travel.
Cllr Dave Stewart called the government decision to put the Isle of Wight in Tier One 'good news' for hospitality and business, here, but he is urging caution — for Islanders, and for those visiting from the mainland.
Government guidance says those in Tier Two must continue to follow Tier Two rules when travelling to a Tier One area.
Travel options are set to increase from Saturday, December 5, when Wightlink FastCats resume and the Yarmouth ferry service adds more sailings.
Visit Isle of Wight says it is working with the Isle of Wight Council to ensure that visitors can enjoy everything on offer, while maintaining our Tier One status.
Will Myles, managing director of Visit Isle of Wight, said: "Our community has worked hard to keep the infection rates low and we are reminding our visitors to respect that effort by following the guidelines and following the measures that have been put in place.
"Our message to visitors is that when choosing somewhere to stay, we thank you for choosing the Isle of Wight.
"Please respect what the local community has achieved in keeping infection rates low and help us to ensure that the Island will always be the place for people to enjoy.
"We hope when planning your next staycation, you will choose the Wight way to travel."
Campaigner Mark Jefferies is concerned about people travelling to the Island, and is secretary of the IW Ferry Group, which is calling for more clarity on how our Tier One status can be protected.
One suggestion is temperature checks at the ferry ports.
Are you confused over the new rules for pubs and restaurants? Find out the detail here.
House Rules
We do not moderate comments, but we expect readers to adhere to certain rules in the interests of open and accountable debate.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel