A FURTHER person in the North-East has died after being diagnosed with coronavirus as the total number of UK deaths rises to 144.

It came as latest figures revealed that the number of COVID-19 cases across the UK had now increased to 3,269.

Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust said a patient had died in one of its hospitals after being diagnosed with the virus.

Dr Jeremy Rushmer, executive medical director at the trust, said: “We can confirm that a patient we were caring for at The Northumbria hospital, who had tested positive for COVID-19, has died.

“Our deepest sympathies are with the patient’s family and friends at this very sad and difficult time.

"We will not be commenting further and ask that everyone respects the family’s privacy.”

It is understood the patient had underlying health conditions.

A statement from NHS England said: "A further 29 people who tested positive for the coronavirus have died, bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in England to 128.

"Patients were aged between 47 and 96 years old and had underlying health conditions. Their families have been informed."

The Department of Health said a total of 64,621 people had been tested for COVID-19.