A BOROUGH MP is celebrating after coronavirus restrictions we eased to allow grandparents to continue to provide informal childcare.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has relaxed current rules to allow grandparents, and other qualifying cases, to look after youngsters in local lockdown areas.

Bury North MP James Daly had previously raised the issue in the House of Commons with Mr Hancock last week.

He said: "One challenge being faced in my constituency is childcare. We are in a situation where many people are looking to get back into work.

"Many grandparents look after children, but they are struggling because they remain in the bubble that we have in Bury, which is one person to another household, and many of them still live together.

"They are asking whether the bubble can be extended to two people per household to allow them to provide emotional, practical and social support to their family at this difficult time." And in a statement to the Commons yesterday, Mr Hancock said: "I've heard the concerns about the impact of local action on childcare arrangements.

"For many, informal childcare arrangements are a lifeline, without which they couldn't do their jobs.

"So, today I'm able to announce a new exemption for looking after children under the age of 14 or vulnerable adults where that is necessary for caring purposes.

"This covers both formal and informal arrangements. It does not allow for play-dates or parties, but it does mean that a consistent childcare relationship that is vital for somebody to get to work is allowed.

"I hope this change will provide clarity and comfort to many people who are living with these local restrictions."