A HEALTHCARE assistant described as "warm, caring and dedicated" has died after contracting coronavirus.

Sharon Bamford worked on the haematology and oncology ward at Singleton Hospital in Swansea.

Swansea Bay University Health Board said: "Our hearts are breaking. We have lost another colleague to COVID-19."

Sharon Bamford, who was a warm, caring and dedicated healthcare assistant on the haematology/oncology ward at Singleton Hospital, passed away last night after contracting coronavirus.

The health board said it was particularly poignant is that it follows the recent death of Mrs Bamford's much-loved husband, Malcolm, who also succumbed to coronavirus.

Both were cared for at the intensive care unit in Morriston Hospital.

Their son, Christian, was also in hospital being treared for the virus but thankfully has since been discharged.

Sharon had worked in Singleton for many years, and since 2005 worked within the haematology/oncology ward as a much valued team member.

Jan Worthing, Director of Singleton Hospital, said: “Sharon was highly thought of by all the patients who have used the services and loved by her colleagues and friends within the team.

“Sharon’s sad death will leave a massive void within the team and within the Singleton family.

“Our thoughts and condolences are obviously with their sons Craig and Chris at this devastating time, with the loss of both Sharon and Malcolm. We offer our most sincere condolences to Sharon’s family, friends and colleagues at this extremely sad time.”

he health board said it was offering dedicated support to Mrs Bamford's colleagues.