Temporary mortuary set up at RAF Henlow to relieve Luton & Dunstable and Bedford Hospitals during coronavirus pandemic

A spokesman from Beds, Luton and MK Clinical Commissioning Group (BLNK CCG) said: "A sad reality of the pandemic is that Luton and Dunstable and Bedford Hospital are preparing for an increase in the number of deaths locally.

"To help with this an additional temporary resting place has been set up at RAF Henlow.

"This facility is starting to be used so that the hospital mortuaries have capacity over the weekend."

Muriel Scott, director of public health in Bedfordshire, added: “This is a hard thing to think about, but it is vital that we prepare and enable our hospitals to focus on saving lives.

“In order to protect the dignity and respect of those who have lost their lives, the temporary resting place will be similar to the hospitals, with trained staff and security in place to ensure loved ones can safely remain there until funerals take place.

“Everyone can play their part in helping to save lives by staying at home.”

Luton & Dunstable Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has recorded 51 coronavirus related deaths since the outbreak began, and Bedford Hospital NHS Trust has recorded 33.