A senior frontline worker treating coronavirus patients has laid bare the ruthless nature of the bug that "takes people you don't expect to die".
Dr Paul Smith has revealed the sweeping force of the virus on sufferers ranging from "healthy and fit" teenagers as young as 16 to those in their 50s and 60s.
The intensive care consultant has worked at Queen's Hospital in Burton for eight years but saw life in his unit turn upside down with the dawn of the pandemic.
Detailing the "extremely emotional" reality of seeing people unable to breathe, Dr Smith spoke of the toll it takes on the staff fighting to save lives. "There have been certain cases that get to you, especially those with the responsibility of a young family," the 46-year-old told