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.

Ralf Rangnick has played down the importance of Cristiano Ronaldo's partnership with Bruno Fernandes and says Manchester United must "develop as a whole team".

"Even the masks are sick of it!"

The UK has seen its warmest New Year's Eve on record with temperatures reaching 15.8C (60.44F) in Somerset.

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.

The UK has reported 189,846 new COVID-19 cases in the latest 24-hour period - a new record high in the pandemic, according to government data.