The UK's coronavirus hospital death toll has increased by 393 - the biggest jump on a Saturday since early May. England reported 314 fatalities, Scotland had 39, Wales recorded 31 and Northern Ireland had nine.
It is the highest toll on a Saturday since 469 hospital deaths were announced on May 2, when the UK was emerging from its initial peak, and it comes after the totals dropped on two consecutive Saturdays.
By comparison, the totals on recent Saturdays were 368 on December 5, 370 on November 28, 391 on November 21, 370 on November 14 and 366 on November 7.
It came as scientists warned the UK could face a third coronavirus wave and more lockdowns after rules are relaxed at Christmas to allow families to mix indoors.