Mortuary set up in Hereford ahead of coronavirus death surge

Prime Minister Boris Johnson was moved into intensive care this week as confirmed coronavirus cases in Herefordshire rose to 70.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson was moved into intensive care this week as confirmed coronavirus cases in Herefordshire rose to 70.

NHS England figures also show seven people had died in hospital with Covid-19 at the Wye Valley NHS Trust as of April 6.

They were among 1,196 deaths recorded across the Midlands.

Of the 25 trusts across the Midlands, the Wye Valley trust has the 20th highest death toll.

Daily death counts are revised each day, with each case backdated to the actual date of death. Only deaths that occur in hospitals where the patient has tested positive for Covid-19 are recorded, with deaths in the community excluded, such as those in care homes.

This week, Herefordshire Council created a temporary mortuary in preparation for a surge in deaths from Covid-19.

The council, like other local authorities, is preparing for an increase in the number of deaths as a result of the virus.

The facility will act as a secure, dignified holding point before a respectful cremation or burial can take place.

The site at Three Elms is owned by the county council and will provide extra capacity to the Wye Valley NHS Trust at Hereford County Hospital.

It will not be open to the public, and the council is working with funeral directors to ensure a safe and respectful process during this difficult time.

Superintendent Sue Thomas, head of Herefordshire’s emergency response team, said: “Sadly, we
know that the number of deaths to coronavirus will rise, and we need to be prepared.

“As part of the Government’s response, additional mortuary space is being identified in every county. This demonstrates why it remains so important that you reduce your risk of contracting coronavirus and don’t put lives at risk by aiding its spread.

“Keep washing your hands regularly for 20 seconds, stop unnecessary journeys by staying at home and keep a distance of two metres from others if you do need to go out.”

Housing, regulatory services, and community safety cabinet member Ange Tyler said: “We are making these arrangements in a sensitive and measured way to let people know that we are thinking ahead, but appreciate this is enormously difficult for all of us to contemplate.

“We hope we never have to use it.

“We must all do as much as we possibly can to ensure we prevent the spread of coronavirus and within our families and throughout the community.”
Police have also been stopping motorists in Hereford and asking them about the purpose of their journeys.

Officers blocked Belmont Road near the Three Counties Hotel and questioned motorists.

Police have patrolled Widemarsh Common, and over recent days have also been on Aylestone Hill.