A leading heart surgeon at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff has died following a positive test for Covid-19.

Jitendra Rathod, 58, was admitted to the hospital where he worked but died in intensive care on Monday, officials confirmed.

The father-of-two, known as Jitu to family and friends, is not thought to have had any underlying health conditions.

He is believed to be the first healthworker in Wales to die following a positive test for covid-19.

His death was announced in a statement by Cardiff and Vale University Health Board,  which said: "It is with profound sadness that we must inform you that Mr Jitendra Rathod, associate specialist in cardiothoracic surgery, has passed away.

"He died early this morning on our general intensive care unit after testing positive for Covid-19.

"Jitu had worked in the Department of Cardio-thoracic Surgery since the mid-1990s and came back to UHW in 2006 after a brief stint abroad."

They described Mr Rathod as an 'incredibly dedicated surgeon who cared deeply for his patients'.

"He was well-liked and greatly respected by one and all."

Mr Rathod is survived by his wife and two sons.