Scots can enjoy live concerts, theatre and bingo from Wednesday as long as they remain in their cars.

The Scottish Government said the risk of Covid-19 being transmitted in drive-in events is low enough to give them the green light.

It follows a decision to allow drive-in cinemas last week. Other live outdoor events are not due to start before July 31.

Scotland’s culture secretary, Fiona Hyslop, said: “The ideas coming forward from our events and festivals sector are both a sensible way to deliver live events and demonstrate that innovation thrives in adversity.”

Organisers of events will have to make sure performers stick to public health guidance and hygiene. Attendance will be limited to one extended household in a car, keeping two-metre distancing for staff.

Customers will be able to leave their cars to go to toilets and to food or merchandise areas. And they will have to leave contact details to help trace any infections.

Hyslop said the new format may be in place for “some time to come”. She added: “Drive-in live events signal that innovative approaches can provide a first step towards recovery and can be the needed lifeline for our events sector during this time.

“I would encourage our local communities and events sector to work together to be creative and consider the possibilities of drive-in live events – from music concerts and local bingo nights, to family theatre and a reimagining of some of our most loved annual live events.”

Peter Duthie, who runs the SEC venue in Glasgow, said it’s a first step.

“The events industry has been hit particularly hard by the Covid-19 pandemic and is likely to be one of the last industries to come out of lockdown,” he said.