NICOLA Sturgeon has confirmed large parts of the country will move out of level 4 lockdown restrictions in Scotland from Friday.

More than two million people in west and central Scotland have been living under the toughest level of restrictions since November 20.

But from 6pm on Friday, all 11 council areas currently in level 4 will drop to a lower level.

Here are nine things you need to know about the new restrictions:

Non-essential shops

From Friday, non-essential shops like clothes and gift stores, visitor attractions and libraries can reopen.

Retail premises will be able to open from 6am on Friday - unlike other sectors which have to wait until 6pm.

Hairdressers

Hairdressers, barbers, and beauticians will be able to reopen – to the relief of many.

Pubs/restaurants

Pubs, bars and restaurants will also be able to open their doors.

However, no alcohol can be served, and premises must close at 6pm.

Hotels and other accommodation providers can still serve food to guests staying in their premises up to 10pm. Room service, including alcohol, is allowed as normal.

Gyms

Gyms can reopen for individual exercise, and organised outdoor non-contact sports can take place.

Glasgow Times: Gyms can reopen under Level 3 rulesGyms can reopen under Level 3 rules

Personal training and coaching can also restart, but indoor group exercise activities for over-18s are banned.

Contact sports are also banned for adults, apart for professional sport.

Meeting other people

Just as in level 4, there will be no in-home socialising.

Six people from two households can meet outdoors and in public places such as hospitality settings.

Young people aged between 12 and 17 can meet up in groups of up to six outdoors. These groups are not subject to the two household limit but physical distancing is required.

Travel

Again, like level 4, it is against the law to travel outside your council area without a reasonable excuse – such as work or caring for another person.

Journeys within your council area should also be kept to a minimum.

Glasgow Times: Pubs can reopen under Level 3 - but can't sell alcohol Pubs can reopen under Level 3 - but can't sell alcohol

Places of worship

Places of worship are open but are restricted to 50 people.

Weddings, civil partnerships, funerals, wakes and wedding receptions are all permitted, subjected to a 20 person limit.

Other leisure activities

Entertainment venues like soft play, snooker halls, indoor bowling alleys, bingo halls and casinos remain closed. Outdoor live events are also banned.

Schools and nurseries

Across all levels in Scotland, schools and nurseries remain open.

Full details can be found on the Scottish Government website here