On this day: Boris Johnson tests positive for Covid-19

The Prime Minister, who was experiencing mild symptoms at the time, shared the news with the nation through a video posted on his Twitter account.

He stated: "Over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms of the coronavirus - that's to say a temperature and a persistent cough."

In his Twitter message, then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he has developed mild coronavirus symptoms (Image: Archive) Following the advice of the chief medical officer, Mr Johnson took a test, which returned positive.

He confirmed: "So I am working from home: I'm self-isolating.

"That's entirely the right thing to do."

Despite his diagnosis, the Prime Minister expressed confidence in his ability to lead the country’s response to the pandemic, saying: "But be in no doubt that I can continue - thanks to the wizardry of modern technology to communicate with all my top team to lead the national fightback against coronavirus."

Mr Johnson went on to thank the NHS, describing his participation in the previous night's nationwide clapping event for health service workers as a moving experience.

He urged the public to adhere to guidelines, stating: "It was by taking the advice to stay at home that the UK could stop the virus spreading from household to household.

"We're going to beat it - and we're going to beat it together." 

He added: "Stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives."

This story was first reported on by Phil Coleman on March 27, 2020.