First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has announced that a phased relaxation of pre-Christmas covid restrictions will begin next week. 

She told the Scottish Parliament that despite challenges faced by the NHS, there was cause for optimism due to high uptake in booster vaccines. 

From Monday, limits of 500 on live outdoor events such as football will be lifted, and spectators will be permitted again at major sporting events. 

Organisers of these events must adhere to increased covid-19 passport checks, which must now include booster jabs. 

Other restrictions on indoor live events, distancing in indoor public places, and on hospitality will be reviewed a week today.