The Prime Minister has confirmed the next stage of lockdown lifting in England will be on April 12.

The lifting will see non-essential shops, hairdressers and gyms reopen while pubs and restaurants can start serving customers outdoors.

In this evening's press conference, Boris Johnson said that the vaccination programme has continued to be successful and that it is 'really clear' that people's adherence to the rules is paying off as rates across the country remain low.

Addressing a Downing Street press conference on Monday, Boris Johnson said: “The net result of your efforts and of course the vaccine rollout is that I can today confirm that from Monday April 12, we will move to step two of our road map.

“Reopening shops, gyms, zoos, holiday campsites, personal care services like hairdressers and of course beer gardens and outdoor hospitality of all kinds.

“And on Monday 12, I will be going to the pub myself and cautiously but irreversibly raising a pint of beer to my lips.”

Boris Johnson said the lockdown changes in England were “fully justified” but urged the public not to be complacent.

The Prime Minister added: “We think that these changes are fully justified by the data, which shows that we are meeting our four tests for easing the lockdown.

“But – and you know I’m going to say this – we can’t be complacent.

“We can see the waves of sickness afflicting other countries and we’ve seen how this story goes.

“We still don’t know how strong the vaccine shield will be when cases begin to rise, as I’m afraid they will, and that’s why we’re saying please get your vaccine or your second dose when the turn comes.

“And please use the free NHS tests even if you don’t feel ill.”