THIS is the much loved Bolton health care worker Lourdes Campbell ­— who has died from coronavirus.

Known as Des to her friends and colleagues, the 54-year-old died last night after contracting the virus and falling ill two weeks ago.

Bolton NHS Foundation Trust chief Executive Fiona Noden said: “This is a terrible and poignant reminder of the situation we are facing every day to help others and I want to thank every member our staff for their continued care for our patients and community.

“Their continued courage and commitment to duty is inspirational and a comfort to us all in these difficult times.”

The health care assistant was employed by the Trust.

Mrs Noden announced the news this morning.

She said: “It is with deep regret and huge sadness that I share with you the devastating news that we have lost a friend and colleague to the terrible Covid-19 virus.

“Lourdes Campbell one of our heath care assistants died yesterday on our Critical Care Unit. Lourdes, known as Des to her colleagues, had worked with us for nearly 13 years.

“She was a well-liked and valued member of the team, known for working extremely hard.  She was dedicated to patient care and her colleagues respected her quiet, diligent and compassionate approach."

A total of 87 people have died due to coronavirus at the Royal Bolton Hospital, according to figures released on Wednesday.

Statistics released by NHS England show 10 more deaths recorded since the previous day’s total.

The Easter bank holiday weekend saw the biggest increase in the death rate so far with 29 people recorded as having died at the hospital with Covid-19, including nine a day on Saturday and Monday.

In total, in England, 11,656 people have now lost their lives to the virus, with 10,664 being aged 60 and over.

A total of 1,557 deaths have occurred in the North West.