Three coronavirus patients have died in Newcastle and two have died in Sunderland.

The announcement came from NHS England on Monday as the total number of Covid-19 deaths in the UK reached 335.

All of the patients were suffering from underlying health conditions.

A Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Hospitals Trust statement said: "We are very sad to confirm that three patients who had tested positive for Covid-19 have died in the Royal Victoria Infirmary.

"Our thoughts and condolences are with their families at this very difficult and distressing time. We would like to request that the privacy of these families is respected."

In England, a further 46 people who tested positive for the coronavirus (Covid-19) have died, bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in England to 303.

Patients were aged between 47 and 105 years old and all had underlying health conditions.

A spokesperson for Newcastle City Council said: “It is with deep sadness that we learned today of the first deaths from Coronavirus in Newcastle.

“The three patients – all elderly and suffering from underlying health conditions - passed away in the Royal Victoria Infirmary.

“Our hearts go out to them and their families at this very sad time.

“We would like to pay tribute to our amazing doctors and nurses who are working round the clock to care for those afflicted by this virus.

“We urge everyone to observe the social distancing guidance and remain two metres apart from others. We cannot overestimate how critical this is in helping the NHS deal with the pandemic. Everyone has a part to play in reducing the pressure on our NHS.”

A further four people died after testing positive for coronavirus in Scotland, taking the total number of deaths there to 14, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced.

Meanwhile, Public Health Wales said a further four patients in Wales who tested positive have died, bringing the total to 16.

The announcement comes as the G overnment looked at introducing emergency powers in a bid to prevent people from flouting official advice on self-isolating.