Jersey's government has confirmed that up to 50 people will be able to attend a wedding reception in a private garden from 10 May.

It's after caterers and other events businesses revealed couples are cancelling or having to cut guest lists.

Jersey Kitchen owner Tony Sargeant called the rules 'idiotic' and 'total and utter madness'.

He told Channel 103 earlier this week that Ministers should realise a mistake has been made and reverse the decision immediately.

Currently, only 50 people can attend a ceremony and 20 a reception if it is on a private lawn - but an unlimited number is allowed if the same marquee is at a hired venue. 

Before announcing the updated guidance, which you can read here, a government spokesperson says it's because only then are commercial operators responsible in law for complying with Covid public health controls.

"A wedding reception, which includes eating and drinking, is bound by the same controls as all other forms for parties or events, which includes being limited to 20 people in a person’s home or private garden to which the public do not have access. This accords with public health and STAC advice.

"It is known that parties or gatherings in people’s homes bring particular risks because the environment is not generally subject to the same cleaning regimes as commercial venues. Whilst marquees are erected in gardens, as opposed to in homes, it is the case that there is a tendency for guests to drift into the home, for example when using the toilet."

Jersey Kitchen has posted on Facebook, criticising what it has called 'completely incorrect information given all along' which has led to heartache and pain.