AS coronavirus measures continue to be implemented across the UK, here’s a snapshot of the overnight situation:

  • The UK death toll for coronavirus rose to 71, this includes a patient who died yesterday at Harrogate District Hospital in North Yorkshire. According to latest figures available from Public Health England, there are 1,950 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK, however, the Government’s chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said that around 55,000 people in the UK potentially now have covid-19,
  • In the North-East and North Yorkshire, Public Health England said the following cases have been confirmed: North Yorkshire 8, York 3, Newcastle 5, Stockton 3, Darlington 1, North Tyneside 3, Redcar and Cleveland 1, County Durham 1, Sunderland 1, Gateshead 1.
  • Nissan suspended production at its Sunderland factory, with the car manufacturer saying in a statement on Tuesday: "Vehicle production has been suspended today in Nissan Sunderland plant. Further measures are currently under study as we assess supply chain disruption and the sudden drop in market demand caused by the covid-19 emergency."
  • Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced a package of loans worth £330 billion to help support the economy, among other coronavirus measures. These include a relaxation of legislation to enable pubs and restaurants to offer takeaway meals without applying for permission. Police have also been given powers to arrest in the interests of public health.
  • Major events planned for the region have been cancelled or postponed, including the Tour de Yorkshire and Middleham Open Day, while councils have shut public buildings such as libraries and leisure centres. Museums including Locomotion in Shildon and York Railway Museum were among the many to confirm last night that will be temporarily closed.
  • Newcastle Airport stopped all seasonal staff recruitment, with a spokesman saying: "An increasing number of airlines are now withdrawing flights and curtailing their flying schedules as numerous countries move into lockdown. Newcastle is a strong regional airport, but in order to navigate the significant reduction in passengers as a result of the covid-19 situation, we must take urgent steps to protect the long term interests of the business and the North-East region."