More than 2,000 people have been admitted to Great Western Hospital with confirmed or suspected coronavirus since the pandemic began.

According to papers shared with the hospital trust’s board of directors, 2,200 patients were admitted to the Marlborough Road hospital with Covid-19 symptoms.

A total of 121 people have lost their lives to the virus at GWH. More than 200 patients cared for at the hospital have been discharged.

In his report to the board, chief executive Kevin McNamara said: “We have seen a significant downward trend and clearly hope this continues as the country gradually begins to emerge from lockdown.”

Mr McNamara said more than 700 members of staff had been tested for the virus. The hospital was preparing to regularly test staff members who were not displaying symptoms. And the hospital, which has halted many treatments during the pandemic, was preparing to return to treating more regular patients.

“Logistically this phase is as challenging, if not more so, than the first phase and we are planning extensively to ensure the re-start is as safe as possible,” Mr McNamara told directors.

“We will take a phased approach, ensuring our supplies of personal protective equipment, bloods, medicines, and equipment is protected. At all times we will need to be prepared to work flexibly and be able to step up a surge in Covid-19 activity at short notice.

“The hospital will not return to how it used to operate – visitor restrictions remain in place and when people come to the hospital as staff, patients, carers, or visitors they will need to follow social distancing guidance.”