Responding to the rise in COVID-19 positive patients in hospitals in England, the chief executive of NHS Providers, Chris Hopson said:

"Trust leaders will keep a close eye on rising COVID-19 admissions into hospitals after weeks of falling numbers.

"While it is positive that the overall number in hospital remains low compared to previous waves, rising admissions can have knock on effects for patient care.

"For example, separating COVID-19 positive patients to prevent others getting infected does mean fewer beds are available. This can impact upon on our ability to provide emergency and planned care."