UK records almost 20,000 further infections with 137 deaths

According to government figures the UK has recorded a further 19,724 confirmed coronavirus cases in just 24-hours, with an additional 137 deaths.

The total number of coronavirus cases in the UK now stands at 654,644 with the total death toll being 58,500.

As of Wednesday there are now 4,146 people in hospital with the virus which is up from 2,944 last week.

Scientists have said that if there is a lockdown then more than 7,000 deaths can be prevented this year.

Scientific advisors are considering a short lockdown in England, possibly for October half-term and or the Christmas holiday.

This would cause minimum disruption for schools, colleges and universities and also for parents.