Andover and the rest of England has been plunged into a third national lockdown, the prime minister has announced tonight.

Boris Johnson began his address by saying it is “both frustrating and alarming" to see the speed at which the new variant is spreading.

Scientists believe it is between 50% and 70% more transmissible, so people are much more likely to catch the virus and to pass it on, he adds.

The PM said hospitals are also under more pressure from Covid than at any time since start of pandemic, giving the government little choice but to lockdown. 

Once again, the prime minister asked the nation to: "Stay at home, save lives and protect the NHS." 

The PM also revealed exams would be cancelled in England wth a replacement method sought.

He said the "hardest and toughest times" are ahead - but said there was light at the end of the tunnel in the form of the new vaccine.

This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow.