Boris Johnson says it is crucial that people continue to stick to coronavirus restrictions as step one of his 'roadmap to freedom' comes into effect.

From today, children and students will return to face to face education in schools and colleges across England.

Care home residents will also be allowed one regular visitor, provided they are tested and wear PPE, and the rules around meeting with a person from another household outdoors will be loosened to permit recreation and not just exercise.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson during a media briefing in Downing Street, London

This is step one of the government's four-stage 'roadmap', which culminates in the lifting of all lockdown restrictions on June 21.

But the Prime Minister has warned that the further easing of restrictions will be "based on data not dates, and government will move cautiously to keep infection rates under control".

He said he hopes today's tentative softening of restrictions marks a "big step" on his "road map to freedom".

But, despite an improving picture in terms of declining Covid cases in England, the Conservative Party leader said he wanted to be careful not to "undo the progress we have made".

"The reopening of schools marks a truly national effort to beat this virus," he said.

"It is because of the determination of every person in this country that we can start moving closer to a sense of normality - and it is right that getting our young people back into the classroom is the first step."

Mr Johnson urged the public to stick to the rules as the government contemplates keeping to its plan for removing measures.

According to the Prime Minister's road map, the second part of stage one, which will allow outdoor gatherings of either six people or two households, is due on March 29.

Shops could open by April 12 and all restrictions could possibly be lifted by June 21.

"We are being cautious in our approach so that we do not undo the progress we have made so far and I urge you all not to give up on your efforts to keep your families and others safe," Mr Johnson added.

"Get the vaccine, get tested, and remember that we are all in this together."