INVERCLYDE Council's leader says the families who have lost loved ones during the coronvirus outbreak remain uppermost in his thoughts.

Councillor Stephen McCabe acknowledged the pain felt by the loved ones of those who have passed away, which has been compounded because people are not able to hold normal funerals, while places of worship are also closed.

Mr McCabe added: "Families suffering tragedy at this time, whether it is Covid-related or another reason, are doubly hit by this because they cannot grieve in the normal way."