Coronavirus: 14 more people lose their lives in South Yorkshire

Six more patients who tested positive for the virus have died in Sheffield hospitals, according to the most recent NHS data published this afternoon (Wednesday, January 27), bringing the total Covid-19 related fatalities in the city to 754.

Elsewhere in South Yorkshire, Doncaster was hit by a further two deaths, bringing the death toll in the town to 658.

In Rotherham there were two additional deaths, taking the total to 500 and in Barnsley there have been 510 deaths after four more were recorded.

Nationwide a further 973 people who tested positive for coronavirus have died in hospital in England, bringing the total number of confirmed deaths reported in hospitals to 68,894.

Boris Johnson announces date when Sheffield schools could reopen to all pupils

Patients were aged between 29 and 103. All except 50, aged between 32 and 98, had known underlying health conditions

The deaths took place between November 18 and January 26, with the majority being on or after January 21.

There were 48 other deaths reported with no positive Covid-19 test result.

Yesterday the UK, which currently holds the world’s highest death rate for Covid, surpassed 100,000 deaths after fatalities jumped by 1,631 in just one day.

Boris Johnson said he took "full responsibility" for the government's actions, adding: "We truly did everything we could. I'm deeply sorry for every life lost.”

The Prime Minister is now facing pressure to reopen schools but explained it would not be possible ‘immediately after the February half term’.

He told MPs that he hoped it would be safe to begin reopening schools on Monday, March 8.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.