Prime Minister Boris Johnson has released a brief Easter message asking people to stay at home. 

He acknowledged that the lockdown has forced churches to close and families to be separated, but he said that this was helping to save lives.

"Wishing everyone a very happy Easter from Downing Street," he said.

"This year across the country churches will remain closed, and families will spend the day apart. But by staying home, remember, you are protecting the NHS and saving lives." 

The Prime Minister, 55, is continuing to recover from coronavirus at St Thomas' Hospital in London after spending three days in intensive care.

A statement from Downing Street on Friday said that the Prime Minister has been able to do short walks in between periods of rest.  

The Government has been urging people to stay at home during the Bank Holiday weekend, despite the sunny weather forecast.

As of Sunday, the UK has close to 80,000 confirmed coronavirus cases.  Total hospital deaths have risen to 9,875.

The Prime Minister's call echoes comments made by the Queen in her first Easter address in which she said that staying at home would keep others safe. 

"This year, Easter will be different for many of us but by keeping apart we keep others safe. But Easter isn't cancelled; indeed, we need Easter as much as ever," she said.

"The discovery of the risen Christ on the first Easter Day gave his followers new hope and fresh purpose, and we can all take heart from this.

"We know that Coronavirus will not overcome us. As dark as death can be – particularly for those suffering with grief – light and life are greater. May the living flame of the Easter hope be a steady guide as we face the future."