YORK and Scarborough hospitals are now treating a record 227 Covid patients - up by 11 in 24 hours.

But the hospitals have also passed a major milestone in having discharged more than 1,500 patients after being treated for the coronavirus.

York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said today that 1,503 patients had been discharged to their usual place of residence or were no longer being treated as having Covid-19.

A spokeswoman said:“We are delighted that so far over 1,500 patients, who had tested positive for Covid-19, have been discharged from our hospitals to continue their recovery.

“Our staff have been exceptional throughout the pandemic.  Their hard work and commitment to patient care is inspiring and this figure is testament to their care and dedication.”

The trust said earlier this week it was treating 154 Covid patients on seven wards at York Hospital alone, but said it was not at capacity and had comprehensive plans to release additional beds and staff, which allowed it to flex its hospital capacity as needed in response to growing numbers of such patients.

It said this included 'regional network plans' to help care for intensive care patients - should the trust need it.