Covid deaths rise to seven at Holmesley Care Home and police investigation continues

Seven deaths have now been reported at the Holmesley care home in Sidford, all of which are believed to be related to an outbreak of Covid-19.

Devon & Cornwall Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the outbreak.

Their investigation is currently focusing on infection control and management within the home. It is not currently related in any way to the vaccination of residents.

'A significant number' of residents and staff have tested positive for coronavirus and there have now been seven deaths since Sunday, March 6.

Ten residents are being treated at the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital with Covid-19. The staff member who was in hospital with Covid-19 has now been discharged.

As part of the ongoing police investigation, officers are speaking to staff and conducted a search of the home earlier this week.

The investigation is being led by police in partnership with a multi-agency safeguarding response.

Devon County Council and other partners are supporting the home with additional management and staffing support while staff are self-isolating, and are communicating directly with residents and their families.

Police continue to have specialist officers communicating with the families of the deceased residents.