Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Britain can look forward to “brighter days ahead”.

In his Easter message the PM said it had been “a very tough year”.

He added: “But, as ever, the arrival of Easter brings with it new hope.

“And this year more than ever, it brings the promise of brighter days ahead for us all.”

Mr Johnson said he was aware many Christians would not be able to celebrate Easter as they would wish because of Covid-19 restrictions.

But he paid tribute to the meaning of Easter to “permeate through every aspect of daily life”.

He added: “That’s why I’ve lost count of the number of church leaders and congregations that have stepped up to support us all in these very challenging times.”

The arrival of Easter brings with it new hope.

And, this year more than ever, it brings the promise of brighter days ahead for us all.

So stay safe, keep following the rules, and have a very happy Easter. pic.twitter.com/BQs4oCn57N

— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) April 4, 2021