THE temporary Covid mortuary at Poole Port, which was activated last month to deal with a surge of deaths, has been stood down.

Health officials have confirmed the mortality support facility (MSF) is being stood down because of a decrease in deaths across the area.

The mortuary has been staffed by RE: ACT Response Teams and BCP Council staff.

BCP Council member for Covid-19 resilience and public health, Cllr Nicola Greene, said: "I would like to offer my condolences to those who have lost family and friends during Covid-19.

"Thank you to our volunteers and staff who ensured the deceased were looked after with dignity at the site.

"Although the temporary site is standing down due to a decrease of deaths in the area, I would encourage our residents to continue to follow national guidance, including to self-isolate if you or your family are showing any symptoms."

The MSF is part of the Excess Deaths Operational PLan, a multi-agency plan including representatives from BCP Council, Dorset Council, HM Coroner, Dorset Police, University Hospitals Dorset Foundation Trust, Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and funeral directors.

Dorset Council leader Cllr Spencer Flower said: "We are pleased that residents of Dorset have observed the government’s rules, and this means that our infection rates are reducing.

"But can we ask everyone to continue the good work to keep everyone safe.

"My heartfelt thoughts go to those people who have lost loved ones during this dreadful pandemic."