Millions of people in parts of northern England are now facing new restrictions, banning separate households from meeting each other at home after a spike in Covid-19 cases.

The rules impact people in Greater Manchester, east Lancashire and parts of West Yorkshire.

The health secretary told the BBC the increase in transmission was due to people visiting friends and relatives.

To help people navigate the changes, 5 Live's Rachel Burden invited virologist Dr Elisabetta Groppelli from St George's University of London onto the Breakfast show to answer questions on picnics, weddings, Eid, childcare and holiday bookings.

Please note: All the guidance contained in this podcast was correct at the time of broadcast - 9am on Friday 31st July. Please check the Government website and BBC News live page for the latest advice.