NICOLA Sturgeon is set to address the nation tonight amid the global coronavirus pandemic.

The First Minister is expected to give a live televised speech to the people of Scotland, as the country's number of cases rise to 322.

There have been no further deaths, and the confirmed increase in cases marks a rise of 56 since yesterday.

Sturgeon's address will take place tonight at 6pm on STV.

Speaking earlier at today's Scottish Government briefing, the First Minister pleaded with Scots to stay away from pubs and restaurants.

She said: “I know that there will be some of you who might be wanting to head out to the pub for a final night out or looking forward to a meal out with friends, but my guidance to you is clear and crystal clear, please do not do this.

“You must not consider this vital health advice to be merely optional. Now, let me say candidly and frankly that I know people don't like to be told what to do by politicians and in normal times. I might not blame you for not wanting to be told what to do by a politician, but please understand and believe me when I say that this is vital."

Asked about a lockdown, to close pubs and restaurants, Sturgeon said she would consider using powers coming to the Government that would allow her to do that "responsibly" if necessary.

Scientists advising the UK Government have agreed that social measures in place to tackle the spread of the virus may need to last for most of a year, at least.