In the light of the further Covid concerns, Dorset Chamber is urging people to support local businesses.

Ian Girling, chief executive, said: “Clearly the emergence of the new Omicron variant is incredibly disappointing.

“The threat of Covid has not disappeared and another lockdown is a nightmare scenario as we approach the busy Christmas trading period and the winter months.

“That is why it is important that everyone follows the new restrictions due to come into force, including the return of mandatory face-wearing in shops and on public transport.

“Some businesses in Dorset will find the reintroduction of measures frustrating, and we again face greater uncertainty about the months ahead.

“However, I am confident that businesses in Dorset will show their customary resilience in the face of another storm to be weathered on our journey out of the pandemic and to economic recovery.

“I would urge the community to support Dorset businesses at this time which means following the new rules and continuing to use their spending power locally, especially in the retail sector as well as leisure and hospitality.

“With the success of the vaccination programme and our experience in combating the pandemic so far, we should be undaunted about dealing with this latest threat and fully play our part in the weeks to come.”