Virus claims life of police worker Marcia
Tributes have been paid to a Greater Manchester Police worker who is believed to have died from coronavirus.
Marcia Pryce, 60, passed away on April 2. She had worked for the force for more than 30 years.
Ms Pryce was self-isolating at home in Wythenshawe for a number of days prior to her death.
An email from GMP said: “It is with deep regret that I must announce the death of one of our colleagues, Marcia Pryce.
“She was a valued member of the team and we will all miss her greatly.
“Our thoughts are with her family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time.”
It is believed Ms Pryce worked full time for GMP in the day, and did shifts at a Virgin Media call centre in Wythenshawe at night.
Bosses at the call centre said the death of one of their employees prompted the temporary closure of the office for a deep clean.
Ms Pryce had been away from her work at the media giant’s Concord House since March 23.
Chief operating officer Jeff Dodds told staff about the death in a conference call at 9am on Friday and confirmed the office would re-open on Saturday.
The news of Ms Pryce’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes on social media.
One friend wrote: “Just had some heartbreaking news that a beautiful lady I had the pleasure of working with at GMP has died from COVID19.
“I am so devastated, blimey we did have some really good laughs.
“RIP Marcia. The world has lost such a beautiful lady.”
Another said: “RIP Marcia, you were an absolute legend and an amazing lady. Thinking of all your friends and family.
Another wrote: “Beautiful lady in every way. My thoughts are with her friends and family.
Virgin Media insisted that work being carried out the office was ‘essential’ and kept customers, hospitals and emergency services well connected during the coronavirus crisis.
A Virgin Media statement said: “It’s with great sadness and a heavy heart that we have been informed one our team members who worked in Wythenshawe has passed away.
“We are supporting our Wythenshawe teams at this difficult time and continue to provide advice and guidance as well as making sure people can ask any questions they may have.
“We send our deepest sympathy and condolences to the individual’s family and friends.”