CROWDS of mourners and colleagues watched tearfully and silently as the hearse carrying nurse Julie Edward passed by the Royal Berkshire Hospital this morning, before breaking into a respectful round of applause to honour the dedicated frontliner.

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This marked the start of the funeral of Julie Edward, who died earlier this month after being diagnosed with Covid-19.

She had worked at the hospital since 2017.

The hearse left Ms Edwards' home this morning, before passing by the hospital where crowds of her colleagues were gathered at a safe distance to pay their respects.

Flocks of people could be seen covering the length of Craven Road ahead of the service, and as the hearse passed by the hospital, tearful onlookers broke into a round of applause.

Flowers spell out 'Nurse J'.

Reading Chronicle:

Royal Berkshire Hospital bosses confirmed the death of Mrs Edward on May 12.

It is understood she passed away earlier this month having tested positive for coronavirus, according to sources of the Chronicle.

The trust's chief executive and other colleagues have recently paid tribute and praised her wealth of experience and dedication to the job.

RBH chief executive Steve McManus, said on May 12: “We are deeply saddened to report the death of nurse Julie Edward who had worked at the Trust since 2017.

"She was a much loved and valued colleague and touched on the lives of many who worked alongside her at the Royal Berkshire Hospital.

"Her kindness and dedication to her job and patients was clear and she will be very sadly missed.

“We have sent our sincere condolences to Julie’s family and offered them every support at this very difficult time.”