TRIBUTES have been paid to an 81-year-old woman who died of suspected coronavirus in a Hampshire care home.

Yvonne Margaret George lived in nursing and residential home Fleming House in Eastleigh, for her last two years, where it was recorded that she died of a lower respiratory tract infection and probable cause Covid-19.

Before moving to Eastleigh in 1938, Yvonne lived in a Barnado’s children’s home in Jersey where she was given chocolate by German soldiers.

Her daughter Jacqui George has now paid tribute to her mother, who was known for having “a sense of humour which would often get her into trouble”.

She said: “Mum was born in Jersey on September 11, 1938. Mum’s mother died during the birth of her youngest brother, she was a toddler when this happened.

“My grandfather was unable to care for mum and her two brothers and sister and they were placed in the Barnado’s children’s homes.

“Mum would often talk about German occupation and the chocolate that was given to them by the German soldiers. Mum came over to the mainland in 1965 and remained in Hampshire until her passing.

“Mum doted on her granddaughters Emily and Megan, she was always spoiling them and making lots of beautiful memories.

“Three years ago, she was diagnosed with alzheimers and moved into Fleming House at the end of 2018.

“Mum did not cope well with residential care but was well supported by the carers, nurses and other staff. I was unable to be with mum when she passed due to my own health needs and this I will never get over.

“I was made aware that the carers gave her the best care and would like to thank them from the bottom of my heart. People who knew Mum knew she had a sense of humour which would often get her into trouble.

“Mum was always in Eastleigh when she retired with her best friend Liz, both enjoying people-watching whilst drinking a cuppa.

“I strongly feel the government let my mother down as well as other OAP residents, whom have died in residential care.”

Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced on Tuesday that all care home residents and staff will be able to access tests regardless of whether they have symptoms.

And according to Environment Secretary George Eustice, care homes were not overlooked during the coronavirus pandemic while focus was on preventing the NHS from being overwhelmed.