BASINGSTOKE has recorded a dramatic increase of over 100 coronavirus cases in just one day. 

The borough recorded 105 new cases yesterday, December 29, its biggest ever daily case count.

Previously the worst day for infections in the council area was December 23 with 87 cases recorded.

Basingstoke's rolling rate is now above the UK average with 276.9 cases per 100,000 people.

Over the last week cases in the area have increased by 58.7 percent compared to the seven days previous.

Infections have been on the rise as the fast-spreading variant of the coronavirus makes its presence felt.

The UK also recorded its biggest daily case count yesterday, December 29, with 53,135  infections, as well as 414 deaths.

It comes as hospitals in England struggle under the strain of dealing with a higher number of Covid-19 patients than ever during the pandemic, surpassing the first wave peak that was seen in April.

Matt Hancock is expected to announce tougher restrictions this afternoon to help curb the pread of the virus.