The number of people in hospital in the UK with Covid-19 is now just over half the peak seen during the second wave of the virus a year ago, new figures show.

       A total of 19,828 patients were recorded on January 10, according to the latest Government data.

       This is up 21% week on week, and is the highest number since February 16, 2021.

       (PA Graphics)

       (PA Graphics)

       It is also just over half the 39,254 patients recorded on January 18, 2021 – at the peak of the second wave.

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       Patient numbers are not rising right across the country, however.

       The figures for London and Northern Ireland have fallen in recent days, while other regions such as south-east and eastern England show signs of levelling off.

       But numbers are continuing to climb steadily in Scotland, Wales, north-east England and Yorkshire.

       There were 2,286 Covid-19 hospital admissions on January 6, the latest UK-wide figure available, down 3% week-on-week.

       Admissions during the second wave peaked at 4,583 on January 12, 2021.