The national lockdown will be eased again on Monday as step one of the government's "road map" to lifting restrictions is completed.

There will be changes to how many people can meet, which sports can take place and more as the country takes another tentative step towards normality.

Step one, of four, of the government's road map took effect on March 8, with all children and students will return to face to face education in schools and colleges. From this date, care home residents were also allowed one regular visitor provided they are tested and wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

People were also allowed to leave their homes for outdoor recreation, such as a socially distanced coffee or picnic with one person from another household.

The Stay at Home requirement has, however, remained in place throughout this month.

But this will all end on Monday, with several major changes to lockdown rules set to come into force.

The end of the Stay at Home message

The government's well-worn Stay at Home mantra is expected to be traded in for a new "Stay Local" message.

No exact definition of local has yet been provided by the government, but the Daily Mirror has reported that "while long-distance travel will not be encouraged, it is legal providing other rules such as overnight stays are not broken".

People are urged to continue to work from home where possible.

Meeting people outdoors

This is the one many people will have been waiting for. Outdoor gatherings of up to six people, or any number of people from two households, will be allowed from Monday.

This includes in private gardens.

Outdoor sports

Outdoor sports facilities such as tennis and basketball courts will be permitted to reopen, offering a welcome alternative to the repetitive runs many have resorted to as a way of keeping fit during lockdown.

People will also be allowed to take part in formally organised outdoor sports, including amateur football and rugby leagues.

What next?

Step two of the government's roadmap to lifting lockdown restrictions is set to begin on April 12.

Scientific experts have, however, warned that the easing of measures was down to "data not dates", with five weeks left between each step of the lockdown being eased to observe and understand the impact of each one before committing to further action.

Step two of the roadmap will see non-essential retail return, most outdoor attractions such as zoos and theme parks will be allowed to welcome back visitors and indoor leisure centres and gyms will be able to reopen.

Hospitality venues will be able to serve customers outdoors only, but there will be no need for customers to order a substantial meal with alcohol, and no curfew.

Self-contained accommodation, such as holiday lets, where indoor facilities are not shared with other households, can also reopen.