The number of people in hospital with COVID in England has risen to 9,546, according to latest figures.

This is up 38% from a week earlier and is the highest number since 3 March.

The latest figure compares to 8,474 yesterday, according to NHS England and indicates a 12% rise in the number of people in hospital in a single day.

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During the second wave of coronavirus, the number peaked at 34,336 on 18 January.

In London, there are 3,024 people in hospital with COVID – up 59% on last week and the highest since 19 February.

Last winter’s peak for the capital was 7,917 on 18 January.

On Monday, it was revealed the number of people in hospital with the virus in England was at its highest level since March.

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This was up 27% from a week earlier and is the highest number since 5 March, when the country was under tough lockdown restrictions.

England also reported a record number of new coronavirus cases on Christmas day, with 113,628 infections confirmed on 25 December.

It comes as England and NorthernIreland recorded 17,269 new Omicron cases. Hospital admissions in England for people with or confirmed, or who are suspected to have the new variant, stands at 668.

Wales has not reported any Omicron figures yet due to the festive period, while Scotland is no longer separating Omicron cases from other variants in its daily reports.

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However, despite the rise of people in hospital the government has said it will not introduce any fresh COVID-19 restrictions in England this side of the new year.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid said people should “remain cautious” when taking part in New Year’s celebrations – and take a lateral flow test before attending events.

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