Comedian says virus claimed brother’s life

The Royle Family star Ricky Tomlinson has revealed one of his brothers died from coronavirus as he urged people to take part in a testing pilot in Liverpool.

In a video message posted on the Liverpool C i ty Council Tw i tt e r account, the actor said: “Covid is a killer. I know only too well, because one of my brothers has just died from Covid-19.

“Don’t let it happen to you, send away for your kit today and do what you’re supposed to do. Save your life and your loved ones around you.”

Tomlinson, 81, said he had used a home testing kit.

As part of the pilot scheme, which began on November 6, anyone who lives or works in Liverpool can have a coronavirus test.