A pregnant nurse has died from coronavirus five days after her baby was saved by an emergency C-section, Sun UK has reported.

The woman identified as Mary Agyapong, 28, who “devoted her life to the NHS”, was taken to hospital on Tuesday last week showing signs of the killer disease and later tested positive for Covid-19.

Her condition quickly worsened and it is understood the decision to perform an emergency caesarean was made shortly after she was admitted.

She died at Luton and Dunstable Hospital on Easter Sunday.

Her newborn daughter, also named Mary, has been hailed as a “beacon of light at this very dark time”.

However, it is not known if the child also has coronavirus.

Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust confirmed Mary was one of its nurses.

Chief executive David Carter said: “Mary worked here for five years and was a highly valued and loved member of our team, a fantastic nurse and a great example of what we stand for in this trust.

“She tested positive for Covid-19 after being tested on April 5 and was admitted to the hospital on April 7.

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Mary’s family and friends at this sad time.”