The BBC has reported that the UK’s coronavirus alert level has been downgraded from four to three.

Under level three, the virus is now considered to be “in general circulation” and there could be a “gradual relaxation of restrictions”.

Previously transmission was considered “high or rising exponentially”.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the change was “a big moment for the country” and that the government’s plan was working.

The decision to reduce the threat level followed a recommendation by the Joint Biosecurity Centre, the chief medical officers for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland said.

There are five coronavirus alert levels in total.