The UK has recorded 44,104 new COVID-19 cases and 73 more coronavirus-related deaths in the latest 24-hour period, according to government data.

The figures compare with 46,558 new cases and 96 deaths announced on Tuesday, and 42,302 cases and 49 deaths which were recorded this time last week.

Since the pandemic began, a total of 128,896 people in the UK have died within 28 days of testing positive for COVID-19.

Separate figures published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show there have been 154,000 deaths registered in the UK where COVID-19 was mentioned on the death certificate.

Some 39,035 people had their first jab on Tuesday, meaning that 46,388,744 have now received at least one COVID vaccination shot in the UK.

Another 161,279 people had their second shot on Tuesday, so 36,404,566 people are now fully inoculated.

(With input from agencies)