Manchester City Council is reminding residents celebrating Eid to remain vigilant due to ongoing Covid infections.

The council said the situation has improved significantly in the past year it is still vitally important that precautions are taken to prevent the further spread of the virus.

Rules are still in place which limit the number of people who can gather in one place, and as always it is vital that people observe social distancing, wear a face mask and continue to be diligent over hand washing.

Gatherings of six people from multiple households are permitted to take place outside; any number of people from two households are also allowed to meet outside.

It is still not permitted to meet people inside unless you are in a support bubble.

David Regan, Manchester’s Director of Public Health, said: “The progress that has been made since the turn of the year, in reducing the number of cases of Covid-19 and the roll out of the vaccine programme, has been striking. However, we must remember that people are still being infected and we are not through this yet. "The vaccine roll out still has some way to go and there are many people who have not had their second or even first vaccine dose, so not everyone is fully protected. Therefore it’s is very important that we remain vigilant.”

Imam Nasar Ishfaq, from the British Muslim Heritage Centre said: “This year we have made amazing progress against Coronavirus and fortunately some rules have been relaxed to allow us to meet friends and family. Residents should keep getting their vaccines when appointments become available so that we can continue to protect our communities.”

Councillor Bev Craig, Executive Member for Adult Health and Wellbeing said: “The sacrifices that have been made by all of the communities living in Manchester this past year cannot be understated.

"However, those sacrifices are resulting in genuine change as the rate of Covid-19 infection continues to fall. But, it is key that to maintain this downward trend we all play our part and follow the rules which are still in place. That means wearing face coverings, washing our hands and keeping a safe distance.

“It is a shame that once again the Eid celebrations in Manchester will not be what they usually are, but I hope that families will be able to enjoy it as best they can, in the safest way possible.”