CARE home bosses have confirmed a 13th resident has died after suffering from Covid-19 symptoms following a concentrated outbreak.

The number of deaths at Stanley Park Care Home in Stanley, County Durham, is believed to be the highest in the region connected to the pandemic.

Care UK has not said how many other residents at the 72-bed home are ill but one resident has tested positive for the virus and is in hospital.

The outbreak emerged on Thursday and five deaths were confirmed on Sunday before the 13th was reported on Monday.

Care UK’s Regional Director Karen Morrison said: “My heart goes out to the families and friends of residents who have passed away over the past few days. We are all thinking of them at this difficult time and send our condolences and best wishes.

“The manager and her team at the home continue to be absolutely amazing and I cannot thank them enough.

“Despite all that has happened, they continue to deliver the very best care in a kind and professional way.

“Their determination and commitment to support every resident, and each other, through these very challenging times is incredible.

“I’d like to reassure everyone, including relatives of those in the home, that we are doing everything in our power to keep people safe and comfortable.

“We have all the necessary PPE and we continue to use it meticulously as we have since the first case was seen at the end of last month.”