England will permit a limited number of fans at outdoor sports events when the four-week lockdown amid the coronavirus pandemic ends on December 2.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday declared the government's new measures and Covid-19 restrictions in the nation. According to BBC Sport, a maximum of 4,000 fans will be permitted at outdoor events in the lowest-risk areas. Up to 2,000 people will be permitted in tier two areas but none in tier three.

Indoor venues in tiers one and two can have a maximum of 1,000 spectators, with capacity across indoor and outdoor venues limited to 50 per cent.

The news will be of great relief to clubs, particularly those in the lower leagues, who have struggled monetarily in the absence of match-going supporters. England's top-tier football tournament Premier League, has welcomed the announcement made by the UK PM.

"Fans have been greatly missed at Premier League matches and therefore we welcome the Prime Minister's announcement today regarding the return of supporters for the first time since March, albeit at small numbers," the league said in a statement.

"Our ambition remains to work with government to increase attendance to more substantial levels. Until this can be done, many fans will be unable to attend games and our clubs will continue to operate matches at a financial loss," it added.

(With inputs from IANS)