A temporary mortuary that was set up at the start of the pandemic is now in use.

The facility, which was built in a former aircraft hangar, was not required during the first wave of coronavirus but is now being used by a nearby hospital.

Based at the former RAF Coltishall base, north-east of Norwich, the mortuary is being utilised by Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH), as they

Chairman of Norfolk’s Covid-19 Strategic Co-ordination Group, Tom McCabe, said: “It was always anticipated that during challenging periods there would be extra pressures on mortuaries, undertakers and crematoria.

“This temporary mortuary provides additional capacity to help make sure the county’s hospitals have enough flexibility of space in their own mortuaries, and to ensure we can provide the most respectful and dignified way to look after both those who have died, and their families, over this difficult period.”

The former air base site is now known as Scottow Enterprise Park.

Mr McCabe added: “Anyone whose loved one is moved to the Scottow location will be informed and we can reassure people that we have a dedicated, trained team of staff who care for those who have died and been taken there.

“The temporary mortuary also received a blessing from the Bishop of Norwich back in April last year, with him making a prayer of dedication in a special address from his home.

“One of the county’s hospitals, the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, has now had to put their business continuity plans in place to use a number of these mortuary spaces.”