THE Countess of Chester Hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU) team have sent a touching message to relatives unable to visit their loved ones due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Staff have been using their free time during breaks and after work to create a video reassuring family and friends that those under their care will feel "safe and loved".

The team acknowledges that it is a stressful time for relatives due to visiting restrictions being in place as a result of the coronavirus crisis, so they were keen to let them know that they are reading out all of their letters and emails to loved ones.

They also promise to "hold their hand" and "always be by their side".

The Countess of Chester Hospital Trust said: "Our amazing team on the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) have spent their free time during breaks, after work and at home filming this video.

"They wanted to let relatives of their patients know that they are there for their loved ones and will be that vital link between them whilst visiting is not possible due to social distancing."