Further restrictions triggered by COVID must be an "absolute last resort" and the UK will now have to "live alongside" the virus in 2022, Sajid Javid has said.

A spectacular display in London has helped the UK usher in 2022, with people turning out to watch despite being encouraged to stay at home and enjoy the show on television.

Olympic cycling champions Jason and Laura Kenny have been awarded a knighthood and damehood respectively in the Queen’s New Year Honours list, while Emma Raducanu added one more prize to her 2021 collection.

An 11-year-old boy has become the youngest honours recipient on record after completing a series of fundraising challenges during the pandemic.

Former prime minister Tony Blair has been awarded a knighthood as a host of famous faces have been recognised in the New Year Honours list - including actress Joanna Lumley, Spice Girl Mel B and tennis star Emma Raducanu.

The medical chiefs leading the UK's battle against coronavirus have been recognised with top awards in the New Year Honours list.

Veteran actress Betty White, best known for her role in The Golden Girls and whose career spanned eight decades, has died aged 99.

Veteran actress Betty White, best known for her role in Golden Girls and whose career spanned eight decades, has died aged 99, according to US media.

Despite COVID curbs hindering celebrations, street parties and gatherings are still taking place across the globe as each country rings in the New Year.   

COVID-19 infections in the UK surged to 2.3 million before Christmas according to latest official data - as new analysis highlighted the importance of booster jabs in the fight against Omicron.