Coronavirus death: UK's youngest victim, 59, named as Nailsea man Nick Matthews

Nick Matthews' wife described him as her 'life partner and soul mate'
Mary Matthews/Facebook

The youngest person in the UK to die after contracting coronavirus has been named locally a former Somerset police officer.

His wife Mary shared the news via Facebook, saying he had been taken to hospital with breathing difficulties on Thursday.

In an emotional post on Saturday, Mrs Matthews wrote: “Today at 3am I lost my life partner and soul mate but most of all my best friend.

“Charlotte, Ben and I are beyond proud to have had such a big character in our lives. As a family we are still currently in isolation until the coronavirus test results come back.

“Someone will post again when we have more information. In the meantime, I know some of you would like to visit, but please for you and your families safety, stay away until we get the all clear.”

She later added that the test had come back positive and urged those who had been in contact with the family to self-isolate and seek advice.

Mr and Mrs Matthews had recently returned from a holiday in Fuerteventura, flying out on February 22 and returning on February 29.

Nailsea People reported that Mr Matthews was diagnosed with pneumonia at the Bristol Royal Infirmary and was admitted to the intensive care unit after showing other signs for coronavirus.

Mrs Matthews told Nailsea People: “People who may have come into contact with either Nick or me during the past two weeks need to self-isolate and get advice.

“Although he tested positive, until a post-mortem examination, we can’t say that was cause of death at the moment.

“I don’t want to panic people, but I do want people to take extra precautions.”

Mr Matthews retired from his work as a police officer 10 years ago after suffering a heart attack.

Many paid tribute to him on Facebook, with one describing him as a “true Avon and Somerset Police legend”.

In a statement, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust said: “Sadly, we can confirm that a man who was being cared for at the Bristol Royal Infirmary, and had tested positive for Covid-19, has died.

“The patient who died was in his late-fifties and had underlying health conditions.

“The family has been informed and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time. We will not be commenting further and ask that everybody respects the family’s privacy.”

Councillor Don Davies, the leader of North Somerset Council, said the authority’s “heartfelt condolences” were with the family and all that knew him.

“I understand that the family have requested privacy at this difficult time and I ask that everyone respects their wishes,” Cllr Davies said.

“I am sure the news will be met with sadness in the wider community and it is important that everyone remains calm and follows the latest national advice on the steps needed to reduce the spread of infection.”

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