More than 50,000 daily coronavirus cases have been reported in the UK for the first time since mid-January.
There were 51,870 cases recorded – the highest figure since 15 January – and 49 deaths within 28 days of a positive test.
From Monday, lockdown rules will end in England – although some guidance will remain.
Earlier, England’s chief medical officer warned hospital admissions could hit “scary numbers”.
Prof Chris Whitty said the number of people in hospital with Covid was doubling roughly every three weeks.
