Britain and France have announced their intention to ease coronavirus restrictions in the run-up to Christmas, as a second wave of infections subsides following weeks of lockdowns in Europe.

In a televised address, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that shops could reopen this Saturday and that nation-wide stay-at-home orders would be lifted from December 15.

The British authorities also announced that restrictions on social mixing and travel would be eased across the UK over Christmas, with up to three families allowed to mix over the festive period.

Germany's 16 states have also agreed to slightly loosen limits on social contact over Christmas, according to a draft deal seen by AFP.