There have been five more reported deaths related to Covid-19 in Suffolk and north Essex.

East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), which manages Ipswich and Colchester hospitals, reported three of the deaths.

All three patients died at Colchester Hospital.

One of the patients was in their 90s, one in their 80s and one in their 50s. All had underlying health conditions.

Nick Hulme, ESNEFT chief executive, said: “We can confirm that three patients, one in their 90s, one in their 80s, and one in their 50s, all of whom had underlying health conditions, have sadly passed away at Colchester Hospital. They had all tested positive for Covid-19.

“Our thoughts and condolences remain with the patients’ families and loved ones at this difficult time.”

Meanwhile, West Suffolk Hospital in Bury St Edmunds reported two more deaths on Friday.

The ages of the patients have not yet been clarified by West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust.

Friday’s figures bring the total number of coronavirus-related deaths reported at ESNEFT hospitals up to 249, while 40 have been reported at West Suffolk Hospital.

There have been 1,027 confirmed cases of coronavirus reported in Suffolk so far and 2,506 in Essex.