'Important milestone' as Scotland exits final level of coronavirus restrictions

Scotland has moved beyond level zero as it exits the final level of COVID-19 restrictions. 

The legal requirement for physical distancing and limits on gatherings have been removed, with all venues allowed to reopen. 

Some measures will remain in place such, including the use of face coverings and the collection of contact details as part of Test and Protect.

Capacity limits of 2000 people indoors and 5000 outdoors will also stay, but exceptions may be possible on a case by case basis. 

The majority of mitigations that were in place in schools in the previous term will be retained for up to six weeks. 

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said people should still be "cautious" as life returns to a form of normality in Scotland. 

Speaking on BBC Breakfast this morning, she said: "This is an infectious virus. It's shown us previously that it is highly unpredictable, so it makes sense to treat it with respect, don't underestimate it and be cautious. 

"But we should also feel positive about where we are right now. Thanks to the sacrifices everybody has made and thanks largely to vaccination, we're in a much stronger position and that allows us to lift legal restrictions, allow people to get much more normality back into their lives. 

"But if we all behave with appropriate caution, wearing our face coverings where required, continuing to keep a safe distance from people in other households, even though it's not a legal requirement, when that is possible then we can hopefully lift these restrictions and continue to see the virus stay under control."

Health secretary Humza Yousaf tweeted: "Many people will (rightly) be enjoying the easing of restrictions moving beyond level zero brings. However, I know also a number of people will be anxious too. 

"That is why we are retaining important baseline mitigations such as wearing face coverings in some indoor settings.

"Test and Protect continues to operate and we ask people to continue with hygiene measures, test yourself regularly and get vaccinated. 

"People have sacrificed so much over last year and half, that coupled with our successful vaccine programme has helped us get to this important milestone."