The flag at Croydon Town Hall will fly half mast in honour of much-loved council worker who died after contracting coronavirus.

Asha Walrond was a customer service assistant at the Timebridge Centre in New Addington.

She passed away on Tuesday night (April 21) at Croydon University Hospital.

Council leader Tony Newman said of the council employee: “Asha was much loved by everyone who worked with her and she was a valued member of the team.

“She was a dedicated local government officer and she was genuinely the heart of the community.”

It is understood that Ms Walrond had underlying health conditions before she became unwell and it is believed she is the first member of Croydon Council staff to pass away as a result of coronavirus.

Councillor Newman added: “Croydon University Hospital looked after and cared for her at the end as they have done with everybody there, whatever the outcome.

“There has been tremendous care and support for both those receiving treatment and for the family members.”

It was announced in a Tweet from Croydon Council that the mast at the town hall would be flown at half mast in her honour.

It said: “We are much saddened by the death of our colleague Asha Walrond, who made a real difference to so many residents as a customer service assistant at the Timebridge Centre, New Addington.

“Thoughts are with her loved ones and the town hall flag will fly at half mast to remember Asha.”

There was an outpouring of condolences from other members of the council.

Councillor Dave Wood tweeted: “Utterly dreadful news. Deepest condolences to Asha’s family, friends and colleagues. May she rest in peace.”

While councillor Leila Ben-Hassel said: “Asha will be in our thoughts. Sympathies and condolences to her loved ones at this tragic heartbreaking time.“