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A record daily death toll of 938 UK lives was revealed yesterday, as the lockdown looked set to continue until May. But experts said new infection rates have fallen by more than a quarter in the past week, offering “much-needed light at the end of the tunnel”.

The nation’s spirits were lifted further by news that bug-hit Boris Johnson was sitting up in bed and “improving” as he spent a third night in intensive care.

Experts warned the PM could be out of action for months.

The Sun is raising funds through our Who Cares Wins Appeal. It pays for crucial services for NHS staff — from providing food and care packs to giving them somewhere to rest.

Yesterday’s death rise was more than the 919 daily high in Italy — Europe’s worst-hit nation. The UK total is now 7,097.

Two NHS nurses, a consultant and a hospital admin worker were among the latest victims. The Sun has learned Downing Street is seriously concerned that Brits may defy strict advice to stay in for the Easter weekend. Temperatures are set to hit 75F (24C).

It also emerged yesterday that schools won’t reopen before other lockdown rules are lifted.

And more than nine million workers are expected to be furloughed under the Government’s coronavirus job retention scheme.