THREE more patients have died at Colchester Hospital, bringing the total number of deaths at the facility to nine.

Nick Hulme, chief executive of the East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, confirmed the tragic news today.

He said: “We can confirm that sadly, three patients, one in their 90’s, and one in their 70’s both of whom had underlying health conditions, together with another patient in their early 80’s who did not have underlying health conditions, have passed away at Colchester Hospital. They had tested positive for Covid-19.

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

Six patients have died at the hospital in previous days.