THE UK could be set for further restrictions with a 'firebreak' lockdown in October if Covid hospitalisations continue to rise.

The government has reportedly drawn up plans for another lockdown in October after a senior government scientist revealed that the UK is about to enter “an extended peak”.

After speaking to SAGE, the i newspaper reported that October half term could be extended to a fortnight rather than a week.

While a full lockdown is unlikely, it is reported some travel restrictions could be reintroduced.

A full lockdown would be seen as a last resort but an extended school half-term into early November could be used to halt hospital admissions.

Face coverings could also return while the government are reportedly considering a return to social distancing and a limit on social gatherings.

This rule would apply to England as face coverings are a legal requirement in indoor settings in Wales, with the exemption of hospitality.

But could Wales follow suit with further restrictions later this year?

First Minister Mark Drakeford has been taking a cautious approach to the easing of lockdown restrictions, despite England easing all legal requirements on July 19.

On August 26, the FM confirmed there will be no changes to the Covid rules in Wales.

Face coverings are mandatory in most public settings, everyone must continue to isolate if they have Covid symptoms or a positive test result, and businesses must take reasonable measures to minimise the risk of exposure to coronavirus.

Welsh Government has been approached by the Leader to see if any restrictions could come into force later this year.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: "There are no plans for a firebreak in Wales. We continue to closely monitor the public health situation and review the coronavirus regulations every three weeks.

"Coronavirus has not gone away and we would encourage everyone to continue to take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones, including taking up the offer of a vaccine if they have not had one yet."