A 'NUMBER of residents' at a Somerset care home have died after an outbreak of Covid-19.

A director of the La Fontana home, in Martock, has confirmed the outbreak and said his 'thoughts and concerns' are with those affected.

The home, in Foldhill Lane, is currently closed to visitors.

Sam Notaro, director of Notaro Care Homes, which runs La Fontana, told the BBC: "Our first thoughts and concerns are always with the family and residents affected by this outbreak.

"We are working with health colleagues to do everything we can to minimise the spread of the virus in La Fontana."

Public Health England and Somerset County Council are providing support and regular testing is being conducted.

La Fontana said extensive testing was being carried out to identify any positive cases and ensure they could self-isolate to prevent any further spread, although the actual number of deaths has not been confirmed.

Somerset County Council's director of public health, Trudi Grant, said: "Our deepest sympathies go out to all of those affected by deaths of loved ones through these difficult times.

"We know it is important that we protect our elderly and vulnerable in care homes, which is why we have issued extensive advice and guidelines to support them in managing suspected and confirmed cases of Covid-19."