THREE patients who tested positive for coronavirus have died at Southend Hospital, it has been confirmed. 

Clare Panniker, chief executive at Southend Hospital, said two of the patients - aged 64 and 76 - had underlying medical conditions.

A third patient - aged 64 - had no underlying medical conditions.

One of those who sadly died was Leigh GP Dr Habib Zaidi

In a statement, Ms Panniker said: "We can confirm that sadly, two patients aged 64 and 76 with underlying medical conditions, and a patient aged 64 with no underlying medical conditions, have passed away at Southend Hospital.

"They had tested positive for Covid-19.

"Our thoughts and condolences remain with the patients' families and loved ones at this difficult time."

The number of people to have died of coronavirus in the UK has reach 1,019.

The latest Government figures released today (Saturday) showed a further 260 deaths, up from 759 on Friday.

Figures also show there are now 17,089 confirmed cases in the UK.

Figures released on Friday show that 166 cases are confirmed in Essex.