The family of the island’s first person to have lost their battle with Covid-19 paid tribute to their ’hero’.

David Corkish’s family thanked the public for sending messages and lighting candles in memory of the 84-year-old, who died on March 31.

David’s son, Graham Corkish, wrote: ’Firstly I’d like to put a name and a face to the island’s first loss to this horrid invisible virus. My father and my hero and friend David Corkish.

’Our dad was a true Manxman and would be proud how everyone came together to show support.

’As a family we can’t be together to grieve which is really difficult, but we understand and want to keep the rest of our family, friends and beautiful isle safe.’

David and his wife, the late Rose Corkish, played a ’huge part’ in the Manx community having supported many clubs, events and charities.

He had not been abroad or out of his home for a number of weeks. David had also not been in contact with anybody who had been ill. The family took great care to limit his contact with others to try and keep safe.

Graham said: ’Please please please if anything at all good could come from my father’s passing, let it be that you will all realise that this horrendous virus can spread to anybody. You all have the power to slow it down or even stop it completely by just staying home.

’Take precautions even if people give you funny looks or laugh, just remember you’re saving the lives of your loved ones by staying safe, washing your hands following the rules.

’My dad was the centre of all of our worlds and we have many happy memories and funny stories to tell our children and their children. You all have time to make more memories once this is all over so please stay at home.’

Graham thanked the Noble’s Hospital workers. ’My father passed peacefully because of these amazing humans and the care they gave him. We will be forever grateful,’ he said.