FIRST Minister Nicola Sturgeon has unveiled new changes to the country's lockdown restrictions.

The SNP leader said the changes were "relatively minor" but important for society's wellbeing.

Outdoor meetings of up to four adults from up to two households will be allowed to meet outdoors for social and recreational purposes from Friday.

Meetings will be allowed to take place in public or private spaces, including gardens.

For young people aged 12 to 17, outdoor meetings will be limited to a maximum of four people, however, the two household rule will not apply.

READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon to make lockdown announcement next week on meeting other people

Non-contact sports will be open to all adults of up to 15 people from Friday.

Finally, "assuming no deterioration" of the situation with the virus, communal worship will be allowed to resume from March 26 with limits increased from 20 people to 50 providing a venue can accommodate social distancing measures.

She warned timing was imperative to ensure the vaccine rollout was given the opportunity to get ahead of the virus, as it was confirmed the new variant identified before Christmas now counted for 90% of positive cases.

Ms Sturgeon said it was "worth reflecting" on the positive trend as the average positive cases dropped below 500.

A possible, although unconfirmed, case of the B1 variant has been identified by an individual who arrived from Rio de Janiero via Paris.

The individual is understood to have followed all protocols regarding isolation.

The First Minister revealed there are plans for a national silence on March 23 to mark a year since coronavirus protocols began and on March 22 she will meet with a support group for families affected by the virus.

A "firmer indicative" timetable for reopening the economy - such as hairdressers and retail - is due to be announced next week.

While addressing parliament, Ms Sturgeon slammed the "flagrant" breaching of lockdown rules by Rangers fans following the team's win later at the weekend.

READ MORE: Covid vaccine for children Scotland: Here’s what we know so far

She said: "I really don't care about the colour of the shirt. My comments on this matter are in no way partisan ... as far as I'm concerned Rangers Football Club could have done more."

Ms Sturgeon said she cannot turn a blind eye to the mass gatherings and promised an update ahead of next week's highly anticipated Old Firm match.

She added: "Let's not allow the irresponsible behaviour of a minority to set us all back."

It comes after a further 466 people have tested positive for the virus, bringing the total to 206,465.

A total of 614 people are in hospital - 40 less than yesterday.

Sadly, 19 more people have died after receiving a positive test.

The death toll currently stands at 7,441.