Covid deaths have soared to the highest in 11 months as a further 438 have been recorded in 24 hours.
It marks the highest daily rise since February 16 last year - when 445 deaths were recorded.
Cases in the last day have however plunged 22% in a week with 94,432 new infections recorded across UK in the last 24 hours.
Last Tuesday, 120,821 cases were recorded and 379 deaths - which was the highest number since February 20th, 2021.
It comes as rules on isolation in England, and Omicron restrictions in Scotland and Wales, are all being relaxed slightly.
That has fuelled hope that in England, Plan B - with Covid passes for nightclubs and work-from-home guidance - will end on January 26.
Asked if Plan B will end on time, Boris Johnson ’s spokesman said today: “There are some encouraging signs that infections are falling across the country, we would want to see that mirrored in the latest ONS data as well.
“There are also some signs of falls or at least plateauing in admissions and occupancy in hospital, which is good to see."
However, he warned the NHS is still under significant pressure and “we are keeping a very close eye on the data”.
“There are also some signs of falls or at least plateauing in admissions and occupancy in hospital, which is good to see."
However, he warned the NHS is still under significant pressure and “we are keeping a very close eye on the data”.
It’s also been reported that compulsory masks in shops and public transport, another part of England’s Plan B, will be extended.
In Scotland, all Covid restrictions in Scotland will be lifted from Monday, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said, as Omicron eases across the nation.
Scots will be able to meet as many of their loved ones indoors, meet people outside without socially distancing and order drinks at the bar.
Ms Sturgeon said cases in Scotland are continuing to fall and the wave of Omicron is "receding".
It comes as the limit on outdoor events was lifted yesterday, allowing many sporting events to take place across the country.
Nightclubs will also be able to reopen, having been closed since December 27.
