Scotland's lockdown extended until middle of February

Scotland's coronavirus lockdown is being extended until at least the middle of February.

The move also applies to schools and nurseries - which will remain shut until that point.

The position will be reviewed again on February 2.

The first minister says the latest data provides cause for optimism, but that case numbers are still too high to ease restrictions at the end of this month as initially planned.

Nicola Sturgeon said: "Any relaxation of lockdown while case numbers remain high, even though they might be declining, could quickly send the situation into reverse.

"We believe that the lockdown restrictions - and the sacrifices everyone continues to make - are beginning to have an impact. However, it is important to be cautious.

"I continue to be very grateful to people across the country for their patience and resilience in the face of this extraordinary challenge.

"At the moment, lockdown is the best way of keeping each other safe, as vaccination continues. It is how we can protect ourselves and our loved ones."