THE first day of new 'Stay Local' rules saw groups of people allowed to meet for the first time since the country went into national lockdown back in January.

On Monday, new measures on travel and who you can now meet came into force as the region's town centres and beauty spots were a hive of activity.

It comes as the rule-of-six has now returned meaning up to six individuals - or two households - can now mix in any outdoor space, including in private gardens.

The restrictions, which complete phase two of step one in the Government's roadmap, also mean you no longer need a reason to leave your home.

Meanwhile some outdoor sporting activities can now resume, with exercise under the rule-of-six permitted, and large groups in allowed in 'formally organised sports.'

The easing of such rules today pave the way for the next step in the Government's roadmap, the reopening of beer gardens, and non-essential shops on April 12.

SEE MORE: Durham and Darlington public health bosses respond on first day of 'Stay Local'

But residents have been warned the easing of measures, and the re-introduction of the rule-of-six, is just a "very early step" in our road out of national restrictions.

See how the region looked on the first day of new rules:

The Northern Echo:

Groups could be seen in Durham City Centre on the first day of the easing of restrictions Picture: STUART BOULTON

The Northern Echo:

Although there were groups, a number of people appeared to remain in pairs Picture: STUART BOULTON

The Northern Echo:

The new 'Stay Local' rules replace the 'Stay Home' message, which has been in place for the past three months Picture: STUART BOULTON

The Northern Echo:

Vendors could be seen later in the day serving visitors, residents and those working in the city Picture: STUART BOULTON

The Northern Echo:

The Market Place appeared busier at midday as some groups forming the rule-of-six were seen Picture: STUART BOULTON

The Northern Echo:

In Darlington, the picture remained generally similar with more pairs than groups Picture: STUART BOULTON

The Northern Echo:

Those in Darlington town centre continued to follow social distancing measures Picture: STUART BOULTON

The Northern Echo:

The next set of restrictions are set to be eased on April 12 as beer gardens and non-essential shops are allowed to reopen  Picture: STUART BOULTON

The Northern Echo:

Members of the Jasmine Yoga Club taking part on the first day of new restrictions in Tynemouth Picture: NORTH NEWS AND PICTURES

The Northern Echo:

Formally organised outdoor sports is now permitted under the latest set of restrictions Picture: NORTH NEWS AND PICTURES

The Northern Echo:

The rule-of-six applies to sport - early morning swimmers all hold hands at Seaburn Beach in Sunderland Picture: NORTH NEWS AND PICTURES