Good afternoon everyone

Tuesday brought a third consecutive day of no new coronavirus related deaths in Northern Ireland, leaving the death toll in the Province at the previous total of 537. 

Just three new cases were reported here, a small rise which further underlines that we are on the right track in terms of fighting this virus which is very encouraging to see.

According to the latest figures, most of the deaths have been patients in Belfast who are aged 80 years or over. There were 159 deaths recorded in Belfast, followed by 59 in the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon council area.The fewest number of deaths (10) were recorded in the Fermanagh and Omagh council area.

 
As Northern Ireland reopens and restrictions are lifted, it’s wonderful seeing couples being able to marry once again, even if ceremonies are in front of a maximum of 10 people. 

The story of newly-weds Paddy and Rebecca Smyth was particularly heart-warming. The Christian couple had been living apart during lockdown because of their beliefs, but were able to reschedule their wedding for Monday at Cregagh Presbyterian Church in east Belfast after several previous attempts were foiled by lockdown restrictions.

Our congratulations go to the happy couple! 

Best regards,
Alistair Bushe, Editor 

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Today's Coronavirus update:

• Northern Ireland: According to department of health figures, which refer mostly to deaths in hospital, the number who have died with Covid-19 remains at 537.
  However, the official statistics also indicate the virus is continuing to spread with three new confirmed cases reported on Tuesday, bringing the total to 4,805.
  
  UK: The UK’s test, track and trace system is “not fit for purpose”, scientists have said.
  The group of 12 experts – led by former Government chief scientific adviser Sir David King – have urged ministers to overhaul the system designed to help the UK out of the coronavirus lockdown
  
  Scotland: Community transmission of Covid-19 in Scotland may have taken place in February, earlier than initially confirmed, according to genetic studies of the virus.
  
  England: Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has told MPs that primary schools in England will not be able to welcome all pupils back for a month before the summer holidays.
  
  Wales: Public Health Wales said a further nine people have died after testing positive for coronavirus, taking the total number of deaths in Wales to 1,410.
  
  Ireland: Professor Cillian De Gascun said there was currently no “specific evidence” that Covid-19 was “particularly associated” with the Cheltenham Festival or rugby fans who travelled here for the cancelled Ireland v Italy Six Nations match in March.