THE VIRUS IN BRIEF
HUW Edwards is urging people to stay home to save lives after being treated for pneumonia. The newsreader, 58, pictured, thanked staff at King’s College Hospital in London for their “superb care” – and promised to return to present the BBC’s News At Ten this week.
He added on Twitter: “Keep safe everyone and follow the guidelines #StayHomeSaveLives.”
Sky News commentator Alastair Bruce welcomed his recovery. He wrote: “Huw, really good news that you have conquered this vile pestilence and our thanks to those that fought with you. #NHSheroes.”
A FAMILY defied lockdown orders to travel 122 miles for a day at the seaside, authorities said.
The group – whose round trip from Bromley, south-east London, to Folkestone, Kent, took two hours and 20 minutes – were let off with a warning by council officials.
Folkestone and Hythe council said on Facebook: “This is not a public holiday – it’s a global pandemic.
“One family travelled from as far as Bromley just to visit the beach.
“The spread of Covid-19 risks the health of our community – friends, family, and key workers such as NHS staff.”
By 3pm on Saturday council officers said they had issued eight warnings to people ignoring advice to stay inside.
STEPHEN Fry, Emily Atack and Russell Tovey are among stars lined up for a radio play to raise cash for the virus-hit theatre industry.
The Understudy by Henry FillouxBennett, based on David Nicholls’ hit novel, will be recorded by actors in isolation and their lines will then be compiled by a remote team.
The public can listen if they have bought a ticket. Stephen, pictured, said: “I do hope lots of you will listen in and combine a good time with support for our wonderful theatre industry.” The first part is released on May 20. Details at www.understudyplay.com.
FORTY soldiers have been deployed to help provide an extra 200 beds for Covid-19 patients on the Isle of Wight.
The Scots Guards will help convert parts of St Mary’s Hospital in Newport into patient accommodation.
Maggie Oldham, chief executive of the Isle of Wight NHS Trust, said: “Our teams at the hospital and in our ambulance, community and mental health services have risen to the challenges of the last few weeks. I am glad to welcome the Scots Guards to help us bring in 200 new beds.
“Having these brave men and women working alongside us will give us the extra support we need.”
Dave Stewart, leader of the Isle of Wight Council, said: “It is comforting to know that we have military aid.”