The UK on Saturday reported 18,270 new coronavirus infections, the highest daily rise since February 5 when 19,114 cases were reported.

Saturday's figures represent an increase from those released on Friday when 15,810 new cases were reported and a week ago when 10,321 cases were reported.

The recent surge in infections has been attributed to the Delta variant first identified in India.

Meanwhile, 23 more deaths were also reported on Saturday, an increase from the 18 fatalities reported on Friday and 14 fatalities a week ago.

Elsewhere, a further 200,383 people received their first dose of a COVID-19 taking the nationwide total to more than 44 million.

Additionally, 158,307 people received a second dose, taking that tally to 32,244,223.

A campaign dubbed 'Grab a Jab' initiative is running this weekend as the National Health Service (NHS) targets to administer millions more first and second vaccine doses before the government lifts all remaining COVID-19 restrictions in England on July 19.

Adults are allowed to receive their first dose and the public is encouraged to turn up to walk-in centres instead of waiting for an appointment with their general practitioner (GP).

(With input from agencies)