The United Kingdom confirmed 45,066 new COVID cases on Thursday, an increase on 42,776 reported on Wednesday.

There were a further 157 deaths confirmed, up from 136 on Wednesday.

Separate figures published by the Office for National Statistics show there have been 163,000 deaths registered in the Kingdom where COVID was mentioned on the death certificate. 

With the latest data, Trafford, Greater Manchester, continues to have the highest infection rate in the UK.

(With input from agencies)