Coronavirus: Confirmed COVID-19 cases in the UK surpass one million mark

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK has now surpassed the one million mark, according to the latest government figures.

On Saturday, the UK recorded 21,915 positive coronavirus cases, slightly fewer than the 24,405 recorded the day before.

The country also recorded 326 COVID-19 related deaths on Saturday, up slightly from the 274 recorded on Friday.

The latest numbers brings the total number of cases recorded in the UK to 1,011,660, and the total number of deaths recorded within 28 days of a positive test to 46,555.

It follows the government's scientific advisers saying England breached its "reasonable worst-case" scenario for COVID-19 infections and hospital admissions.

Modelling suggests there is an average of 43,000 to 74,000 new infections per day in England, significantly above the reasonable worst-case scenario of between 12,000 to 13,000 throughout October.

The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) also warned the number of daily deaths in England is in line with that scenario, but "is almost certain to exceed this within the next two weeks".

It comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that England will enter a month-long lockdown from Thursday.

Until 2 December, people in England will only be allowed to leave their homes for specific reasons, such as education, work or food shopping.

Schools, colleges and universities will remain open while those who cannot work from home, such as construction or manufacturing workers, will be encouraged to continue going to their workplaces.

Pubs, bars and restaurants will close across the country, although they will be able to offer takeaway and delivery services.