Another 26,750 COVID cases have been reported in the UK, according to the government’s latest daily figures.

They also show a further 61 people have died within 28 days of a positive coronavirus test, taking the total figure to 130,953 since the start of the pandemic.

On Saturday, 29,520 new infections and 93 deaths were reported, and this time last week the figures were 27,429 cases and 39 deaths.

Yesterday, another 46,603 people were given a first dose of a coronavirus vaccine, while 199,584 received their second shot.

This means that at least 47,302,445 people have had at least one dose, while 40,577,198 – or 76.7% of adults – are double-jabbed.

Deaths and hospital admissions from COVID are expected to fall this month, according to scientists advising the government.

Projections from a SAGE sub committee suggest the numbers will continue to fall until 25 August.

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Meanwhile, all 16 and 17-year-olds in England will be offered their first vaccine by 23 August, the government has announced.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: “This will make sure everybody has the opportunity to get vital protection before returning to college or sixth form.”

Children aged 12 to 15 who are clinically vulnerable to COVID-19 or who live with adults who are at increased risk of serious illness from the virus are also being contacted by the NHS and invited for their vaccine by 23 August.

In the Republic of Ireland, those aged 12 to 15 were able to get a shot from Friday, with long queues forming despite the rain on Saturday as youngsters sought their jab.

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