ANXIOUS couples who have planned a 2021 wedding now finally have news on when life could return to normal.

Today (February 22), Boris Johnson announced the lockdown exit roadmap in the House of Commons which gave key dates as to when restrictions will be lifted.

Here is all you need to know about weddings in 2021.

Restrictions will begin to ease on March 8 as part of the Governments four step plan.

Phase one

In the first phase, all pupils in England’s schools are expected to return to class from March 8.

Socialising in parks and public spaces with one other person will also be permitted from that date.

A further easing of restrictions will take place on March 29 when the school Easter holidays begin – with larger groups of up to six people or two households allowed to gather in parks and gardens.

Phase two

Stage two will begin from April 12 at the earliest: shops, hairdressers, nail salons, libraries, outdoor attractions and outdoor hospitality venues such as beer gardens will reopen.

Phase three- the earliest weddings could be allowed

From step three, which will begin on May 17 at the earliest, up to 30 people will be able to attend weddings, receptions and wakes, as well as funerals, and other life events will be permitted, such as bar mitzvahs and christenings.

However, progress on the next steps out of lockdown will depend on meeting four tests: the success of the vaccine rollout, evidence of vaccine efficacy, an assessment of new variants, and keeping infection rates below a level that could put unsustainable pressure on the NHS.

If these four tests are not met the dates will be pushed back.

Phase four

The last stage which will begin no earlier than June 21, will hopefully see all legal limits on social contact removed.

It is also hoped that the final closed sectors of the economy, such as nightclubs, could be allowed to reopen, while restrictions on large events could also be eased.

The changes will apply across England, rather than on a regional basis.

Therefore if all four tests are met then weddings of up to 30 people will be permitted from May 17, any wedding after June 21 could potentially see more than 30 guests.