A care home boss has confirmed 13 residents have now died after suffering coronavirus symptoms.

Care UK said everyone at Stanley Park Care Home in Stanley, County Durham, is “really saddened” after the latest death on Monday morning.

Karen Morrison, regional director of Care UK, reassured relatives of those in the home that staff are doing everything they can to keep residents safe.

The home had its first case at the end of March, when a resident died in hospital.

My heart goes out to the families and friends of residents who have passed away over the past few days

A Care UK spokeswoman said the latest resident, who died on Monday, was living in the home and had symptoms that could indicate Covid-19, though no test had been done.

She said: “It is with great regret that I have to let you know that we have lost another resident at Stanley Park Care Home late this morning, bringing the total to 13.

“Everyone in the home is really saddened by this news.”

Ms Morrison said: “My heart goes out to the families and friends of residents who have passed away over the past few days.

“We are all thinking of them at this difficult time and send our condolences and best wishes.

“The manager and her team at the home continue to be absolutely amazing and I cannot thank them enough.

“Despite all that has happened, they continue to deliver the very best care in a kind and professional way.

“Their determination and commitment to support every resident, and each other, through these very challenging times is incredible.”

She added: “I’d like to reassure everyone, including relatives of those in the home, that we are doing everything in our power to keep people safe and comfortable.

“We have all the necessary PPE and we continue to use it meticulously, as we have since the first case was seen at the end of last month.”