Here's the coronavirus guidance and rules if you're planning any last minute shopping in Edinburgh

From December 26, Edinburgh, like the rest of Scotland, will be moving into tier 4 meaning that all non-essential shops will close, but for now, here’s the advice on staying safe if you have any last minute Christmas shopping to get done.

Here's the coronavirus guidance and rules if you're planning any last minute shopping in Edinburgh

Currently, Edinburgh is in tier three so most shops in the city are still open and are hoping for one final boost from Christmas sales before they close their doors on Saturday.

Scottish Government guidance says that you must wear a face covering if you go into any retail premises, including any indoor areas of shopping centres even if you aren’t in a specific retailer.

Most shops have implemented a customer flow system, often outlined by direction signs and floor markings, ensure you observe and follow these and always check before

entering a shop if there are any signs indicating a maximum capacity.

As with any public space, a two-metre physical distance should be kept between people not in your household.

If you are shopping with other people you must only do so in a group of up to six people from two households, again, remember to distance from those outwith your own household.

While out and about, try to avoid crowded shops and if possible, aim to go at times when they will be less busy. If you don’t think you can maintain a physical distance, do not go in.

Most shops now supply hand sanitiser and request that you use it upon entry but you should carry your own if at all possible in case you don’t have access to any elsewhere.

While shopping, remember to avoid touching goods unless you intend to buy them, this can help the virus spread.

The Scottish Government has also asked that customers are considerate to retail staff and abide by their specific guidance, including removing your face covering briefly if requested for proof of age.

If possible, avoid travelling far and shop local and try to be patient, you may need to queue for longer as a result of these precautions.

As always, if you have any symptoms of coronavirus do not go shopping, you must self-isolate to prevent transmission of the virus.

A message from the Editor:Thank you for reading this article. We're more reliant on your support than ever as the shift in consumer habits brought about by coronavirus impacts our advertisers.

If you haven't already, please consider supporting our trusted, fact-checked journalism by taking out a digital subscription.