TRIBUTES have been paid to an "energetic, approachable and dedicated" doctor who died after testing positive for coronavirus.

Dr Abdel Wahab Babiker, 70, had worked as a consultant physician at Scarborough General Hospital since August last year.

He had been receiving care in hospital after contracting Covid-19 but died on Monday, the York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust confirmed.

Paying tribute, Dr Ed Smith, director of acute, emergency and elderly medicine at Scarborough Hospital said: "Dr Babiker was an extremely energetic, hard-working, approachable and dedicated doctor.

"He had a wealth of experience that he brought to bear in caring for our patients.

"He was particularly notable for his 'can-do' attitude and supportive nature, and was well liked by patients and staff alike.

"He will be sorely missed."

Simon Morritt, chief executive of York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, added: "I am deeply saddened by the loss of a member of our Scarborough Hospital team, and offer my condolences to Dr Babiker's family.

"We are making sure that staff have access to any help and support they may need at this difficult time."

It comes as a further 15 people died after testing positive for coronavirus in the North-East and North Yorkshire.