The leader of the Isle of Wight Council is warning us not to stop and chat while outside our homes - and says he is concerned about 'Covid Complacency.'

The Island entered Tier Four on New Year's Eve - the highest of the government's Covid-19 tiers, which includes a stay at home warning.

Councillor Dave Stewart say a lack of social distancing, when walking and exercising, has been reported by a number of Island residents.

Cllr Stewart said: "It is good that people can get out and exercise, even though we are under Tier 4 restrictions.

"However people must understand that this is also a vulnerable time, because the temptation to stop and chat also creates opportunity for the virus to be spread.

"The 2 metre rule and a face mask both help to minimise the risk.

"I encourage everyone to think hard about their behaviour and do the right thing. "With the vaccine now being delivered, we can at last see the road out of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"But it will take several months to make a difference, so in the meanwhile we must not let our guard down.”

The Isle of Wight Council says it will work with Public Health, the NHS and Hampshire Constabulary to get crucial safety messages out.