The family of a prison officer who died after getting Covid-19 have paid tribute to the the “funny, happy and kind” dad.

Paul Tottman worked at HMP Elmley on the Isle of Sheppey and was admitted to a hospital on November 6 after testing positive for the virus.

The father-of-two was transferred to St Thomas’ in London and placed on a life support machine after his lungs were badly damaged.

The 53-year-old sadly died on December 20 and leaves behind wife Laura and his two daughters Katie and Hattie.

Since his death tributes have poured in for him and a fundraising page was set up by Katie with money heading to the London hospital which helped care for him.

She said: “He spent his last month at St Thomas’ receiving the best care possible from the amazing and selfless doctors and nurses who supported us every step of the way.

“Unfortunately, Dad’s lungs were too damaged to recover and he was taken from us far too early.

'He will live on in our hearts forever...'

“We would like Dad to be remembered for the funny, happy and kind - and coffee addicted - person that he always was.

“He will live on in our hearts forever.

“Any money raised will be donated to Guys & St Thomas’ Charity to help them continue the amazing work that they do.”

The page has raised £1,796 - more than five times its target of £350.

Paul’s wife Laura described the her heartbreak of losing her “best friend”.

She said: “Covid took from me my amazing husband and best friend on December 20.

“We have set up a justgiving page to raise money for St Thomas’ hospital who gave him the best care and treatment they possibly could.”

One colleague who worked with him for 15 years, Rob Hope, said he was a “much loved and great person”.

A prison service spokesman said: “Our deepest sympathies are with his loved ones and colleagues at this difficult time.”

To donate to the family’s fundraiser visit here.

Last month part of the prison, which is one of three on the Island, was plunged into isolation for a second time following another Covid outbreak at the site.

For the latest coronavirus news and advice, click here.

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