A WOMAN aged in her 70s who tested positive for coronavirus has died at Russells Hall Hospital, it has been confirmed.

Dudley hospital chiefs confirmed today that the patient, who had underlying health conditions, passed away on March 29.

Diane Wake, chief executive of The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, said in a statement: "Sadly, we can confirm that a woman who was being cared for at Russells Hall Hospital, and had tested positive for COVID-19, has died.

"The patient, who died on 29th March, was in her 70s and had underlying health conditions.

"Her family has been informed and our thoughts and condolences are with them at this difficult and distressing time."

The announcement brings the total number of confirmed coronavirus related deaths at the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust to 42 and comes as the UK death toll increased to 2,921 according to Public Health England figures released today.