Tributes to Pentonville Prison workers who died with Covid-19 symptoms

Tributes have been paid to two prison staff members who died after suffering coronavirus symptoms.

Bovil Peter and Patrick Beckford were both support workers at north London’s Pentonville Prison, and were believed to be in their 60s.

Mark Fairhurst, national chairman of the Prison Officers’ Association (POA), said: “My thoughts and prayers are with everybody involved with these tragic deaths – two at the same prison is very concerning.”

He said he did not know if either of the men had any underlying health conditions.

He described Mr Peter as “an experienced member of staff” who was working at operational support grade at the prison. "He died earlier this week due to Covid-19 symptoms," the POA confirmed.

Mr Fairhurst added: “I just want to highlight the fact that this (Covid-19) puts us all at risk.

“We are on the front line doing a commendable job on behalf of society and he will be sadly missed by all his colleagues.

"We wish the best for his family and friends."