A fundraiser for the family of a Goodmayes nurse who died after contracting coronavirus has raised more than £26,000 in under a week.

Thomas Harvey, a 57-year-old dad-of-seven, worked at Goodmayes Hospital in Ilford and reportedly went into isolation at his home on March 14 before collapsing on Sunday (March 29).

He is thought to have contracted the disease after caring for an infected patient on his ward.

A GoFundMe for his family was set up six days ago and has raised £26,201, with further donations still being added now.

Read more: 41 new coronavirus deaths at Barts Health NHS Trust hospitals

The fundraiser, set up by friend Margaret Barron, reads: “We are raising money for the late Thomas' family, to help with funeral expenses and to move on after he was suddenly taken away by the Covid19.

“Thomas was a devoted member of the NHS for over 20 years and loved his job to the fullest.

“He looked after all his patients to the best of his ability and was loved by many. He was a cherished colleague, a husband, a father, a grandfather and a best friend.

“Unfortunately after treating a Covid19 patient on his ward, he contracted the virus and passed away suddenly after fighting for his life for nearly 2 weeks.

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“Thomas leaves behind his wife of 22 years, 7 children and 3 grandchildren. Please help us raise money to help his family get through this difficult time.”

You can donate to the fundraiser at https://www.gofundme.com/f/funds-to-help-the-family-of-thomas-harvey.

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