The alert level for Covid-19 in the UK is set to be lowered to Level 3 from 4.

Level 3 alert means that a Covid-19 epidemic is still in general circulation. It is a less severe alert than Level 4, which means that transmission is high or rising.

The announcement was made in a statement by the UK Chief Medical officers.

The statement reads: "Following advice from the Joint Biosecurity Centre and in the light of the most recent data, the UK Chief Medical Officers and NHS England National Medical Director agree that the UK alert level should move from level 4 to level 3.

"Thanks to the efforts of the UK public in social distancing and the impact we are starting to see from the vaccination programme, case numbers, deaths and COVID hospital pressures have fallen consistently.

"However COVID is still circulating with people catching and spreading the virus every day so we all need to continue to be vigilant. This remains a major pandemic globally.

"It is very important that we all continue to follow the guidance closely and everyone gets both doses of the vaccine when they are offered it."

The announcement comes a week ahead of further relaxing of Coronavirus restrictions, expected to come into effect from Monday, May 17th.

The new restrictions will give the green light for households to meet indoors, with museums, cinemas and other indoor entertainment venues being allowed to reopen.

Pubs, cafes and restaurants will be allowed to serve customers indoors, and large events will be allowed with limited crowds, such as sports matches and concerts.