AN "NHS hero" from Co Tyrone is believed to have become the first frontline health worker from Northern Ireland to die from Covid-19.
Pat McManus (60), originally from Strabane, had been working as a nurse in a hospital in Staffordshire where he is thought to have contracted the virus from a patient.
It is understood he had underlying health issues but refused to remove himself from frontline duties.
He was described last night as an "exceptional leader" and someone who "stood up for what he believed in and fought for others".
News of his death came as:
:: Prominent lawyer Niall Murphy paid tribute to the medics who fought to save his life after he left hospital where he was in a coma for 16 days.
:: Health minister Robin Swann said he would do all he can to ensure staff do not have to re-use protective equipment, as nursing leaders sought assurances following changes to guidance in England.
:: There have been a further 13 deaths linked to Covid-19 in Northern Ireland and 77 more in the Republic - its highest daily rise to date. The total for the island now stands at almost 900.
:: Mr Swann said latest modelling for the north has revised the 'worst case scenario' downwards to around 1,500 deaths over 20 weeks.
Mr McManus, who died at the weekend, was a son of former Strabane SDLP councillor Peggy McManus.
His sons Kevin, Adrian and Stephen said he "contracted this cruel virus while working on the front line doing what he’s done for 40 years, caring and looking after others".
Tracy Bullock, head of the University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust, said he was a "loveable character and brought kindness and compassion to all his patients".
West Tyrone assembly member Daniel McCrossan also paid tribute to Mr McManus on behalf of people of Strabane.
"He must be remembered as a man who gave his life caring for others in this battle against Covid-19, one of our NHS heroes.”
