Covid-19: Two staff held over Sidmouth care home deaths

Nine deaths have been reported at Holmesley Care Home in Sidmouth, Devon, since 25 February

Police have arrested two care home staff in connection with an outbreak of Covid-19.

Nine deaths have been reported at Holmesley Care Home in Sidmouth, Devon, since 25 February.

All the deaths are believed to be related to an outbreak of the virus, said police.

A woman, 57, from Sidmouth, and a man, 30, from Exeter, have been arrested on suspicion of wilful neglect, said the Devon and Cornwall force.

Police are leading the investigation in partnership with health watchdog the Care Quality Commission

A police spokesperson said no other arrests were "currently planned" as investigations continued.

Police are leading the investigation in partnership with health watchdog the Care Quality Commission.

A spokesperson for Holmesley Care Home said they "can confirm that two staff members have been arrested".

They added: "We are treating the allegations with the utmost seriousness and are grateful to those diligent members of staff who brought concerns to light.

"The police have our full cooperation in their investigation."

They added that they are working with the authorities to manage the outbreak and "can confirm that the majority of residents have now completed their isolation period and are showing no symptoms".