In a sign that life is beginning to return to a relative state of normality, the government has announced that more sporting events will be piloting the safe return of spectators, selected to test a range of different event styles across major men’s and women’s spectator sports.

Numerous pilots have already been completed successfully in the initial phase of the programme, including the World Snooker Championships at the Crucible in Sheffield, and cricket at Edgbaston and the Oval.

These pilots will continue to build up throughout September, with the aim being to fully reopen to fans come October – but they will only be carried out if scientific and medical advice allows them to do so in a covid-secure way.

New measures for test events include upholding social distancing in queues, controlling bookings so social distancing can be observed for seating arrangements, minimising the risk of crowding and pinch points, and recording data to assist NHS Test and Trace.

Oliver Dowden, culture secretary, said: “I’m pleased that infection rates have levelled off enough to resume the pilot programme and we will continue to work intensively with sports, medical and health and safety experts towards welcoming more fans back as fast as we can.”

Members of the public, providers of outdoor sport facilities, personal trainers, elite athletes and coaches can find further guidance on the phased return of sport and recreation on the official government website. It applies to the whole of England but people are being advised to consider local restrictions that may be in place regionally, as well.

For event venues in Manchester, look no further than the Bridgewater Hall.