New rules requiring customers to have the SafeKey proof of Covid-19 vaccination or a negative test did not appear to have affected bars and restaurants on Front Street last night as they appeared to be enjoying brisk business.

A manager in one bar and restaurant highlighted that most customers had opted to sit outside in the evening sunshine.

Customers of indoor bars, clubs, restaurants and fitness centres have to produce a SafeKey certificate as proof that they have been vaccinated or have had a recent clear test result as part of the extra restrictions.

The regulation also applied to boats with more than 20 passengers on board and SafeKeys are also required for new large group exemptions.

The move is designed to arrest the spread of the virulent Delta variant which has led to a sharp increase in Covid-19 cases since Cup Match.

The SafeKey rule does not apply to outside areas.

A government spokeswoman said earlier that the change was introduced “due to the increase in transmission we have recently experienced, and to allow indoor activities to continue with a reduced risk of coronavirus spread”.

She added: “As a note, employees of these establishments are not required to have SafeKey in order to go to work as all employees are required to remain masked at all times.”

The spokeswoman said: “The Government appreciates that there are members of the community who still need clarity in accessing a SafeKey.

“In that regard the public is encouraged to visit www.safekey.gov.bm.

“There they will find tutorials and information on how to access and download their SafeKey.”

Tinee Furbert, the Minister of Social Development and Seniors, added that older people might need assistance to get a SafeKey.

Ms Furbert said: “We encourage family members, friends, and charities to assist seniors who may not have access to a computer, printer, or smartphone and who may not be familiar with the use of such devices, to obtain their SafeKey certificates.”