Former Chief Prosecutor for the North West, Nazir Afzal has paid a touching tribute to his brother who died this week.

Nazir's brother Umar died of natural causes but had tested positive for coronavirus.

Posting on Twitter Mr Afzal said, "My dear eldest brother Umar has passed away at home today The certificate will say “Natural Causes” but he tested + for coronavirus Let him be remembered for the joy he gave us all, not the way he died May he rest in peace I miss him terribly."

He also told of the moment his mother asked to see the face of her son for the last time.

"My 91yr old mum, herself attached to an oxygen tank, asked to see her first born son’s face one last time through the window as he lay in a body bag. The zip was opened to allow this It’s these moments of humanity & compassion that COVID19 cannot take away from you."

Mr Afzal added, "Following my brothers death from COVID19 I learnt

"1. we are substantially under-reporting deaths by not including home & care

"2. Praying for your loved one wearing masks & gloves is what nightmares feel like

"3. You don’t “fight” it-it’s not a measure of character

"4. Stay At Home"