As Ledbury headed towards Tier 2 restrictions this week, it also entered the 'suppressed' category for Covid cases, which means that fewer than three cases were logged for the seven days to November 25.

But a Government official has indicated that the present tiers are probably here to stay until Christmas, at least.

This is the first time market town has been in the lowest category for case numbers, according to the Government's interactive map, since October 19.

However, cases were on the climb in the market town of Newent, where five cases were recorded, which was a rise of 25 per cent on the previous seven days.

But although recorded Covid cases are generally going down in the local area, the impact of the ongoing pandemic and the Tier 2 restrictions are still being felt in community life.

And this is not likely to change, although the tiers decided for each area are set to be looked at again on December 16.

Prof John Edmunds, a member of the SAGE advisory committee, said he thought it "unlikely" that any areas will "change Tier before Christmas".

Meanwhile, a local fun-raising tradition, whereby local scouts collect Christmas trees in the New Year to raise funds, has fallen victim to the uncertainly caused by the Covid crisis.

Organiser, Dr Robert Scholefield said: " Understandably, Western Explorer Scouts are, very regrettably, not able to do their annual Christmas collection in early January 2021.

"Hopefully, the next festive season will be a happier one."

It will be a blow to Scout funds, because proceeds from the collection usually go towards supporting activities for almost 100 youngsters, including Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorer Scouts. On good years, more than £500 can be added to scout funds.