JUST one further person has been added to the recorded tally of coronavirus-related deaths in Thurrock in the past 24 hours, with the fatality happening in the Public Health England designated area of Purfleet, South Stifford and Lakeside.

The total number of deaths in Thurrock is now 51 and the number of recorded coronavirus infections has also risen by one, to 282.

The number of recorded deaths at Basildon & Thurrock University Hospital has risen by four to 239 but overall the number of hospital deaths are beginning to show consistent decline.

Nationally, figures released at 5.30pm today (Sunday, 3 May) show the total number of Covid-19 associated deaths including all sources, is 28,446.

The total number of confirmed virus cases across the UK is 186,599 and the number in Thurrock has risen by one to 282.

At today's government briefing on coronavirus Cabinet office Minister Michael Gove spoke about the issue of Personal Protective Equipment, a somewhat controversial local topic in Thurrrock where local people, and businesses have been donating equipment to a hospital trust that says it doesn't need it.

On the provision of protective kit, Mr Gove said he "would never say we're on top", but ministers are doing "everything we can" to support frontline workers.

A survey of 16,000 doctors carried out by the British Medical Association suggests 65 per cent of those questioned feel they are only partly or not at all protected on the front line of the coronavirus crisis.

Meanwhile, on Thurrock Nub News today, one coronavirus survivor has told of the amazing work being carried out on the frontline at Basildon Hospital, where his life was saved.

Looking forward, during his briefing, Mr Gove said the coming week would see the government lay out a 'comprehensive plan' to amend lockdown restrictions and restart the economy.

This morning, the Transport Secretary, Grant Schapps, said businesses could be asked to stagger employees' working hours when the lockdown eases to try and limit crowded commutes.