Wales will be placed in a second lockdown in a bid to curb the spread of coronavirus.

The Welsh Government announced on Monday that the country will go into a 17-day lockdown from 6pm on Friday to Monday, November 9.

First Minister Mark Drakeford described the "fire-break", also known as a circuit-breaker, as a "short, sharp, shock" to the virus.

"There are no easy options to tackle coronavirus – this was a difficult decision to make. If we don’t act now, we will see further increases in cases and it will be harder to make a difference. It could mean more extreme restrictions are needed.

"I know this fortnight will be a challenge for many at an already difficult time. We are all tired of coronavirus and the impact it has on our daily lives."

Under the restrictions, all non-essential retail, leisure and hospitality businesses will have to close and people will not be able to visit other people’s homes or meet each other outdoors. People will also need to work from home wherever possible.

This year, there will be no organised fireworks displays, Halloween or bonfire parties.

The Welsh Labour leader also announced a £300m package of support available for those businesses affected by the fire-break.

"Coronavirus has well and truly woken up for the winter," the First Minister said. "We face a very serious situation in Wales – if we do not take any action, more people will become seriously ill and there is a very real risk our NHS could be overwhelmed.

"If that happens more people will die this winter. The very clear medical and scientific advice we have had is that we need to act now and we need to act differently."

For more information about the fire-break visit here.

Anyone struggling over the coming weeks can get help from NHS 111 online or contact our CALL mental health support line on 0800 132 737.