Three close brothers from Milton Keynes catch Covid-19 and tragically only one survives

Now family members are urging other people to stick rigidly to government guidelines and do not give in to temptation and visit loved ones.

The three brothers, Osi, Olume and Isi Ivowe were incredibly close and in "constant contact," they say.

Olume, 46, was the first to become ill, followed by 38-year-old Isi, who had Downs Syndrome and lived in sheltered accommodation in MK.

The pair sadly died just nine days apart.

Olume and Isi had been in "constant contact" with each other, say the family.

Older brother Osi Ivowi and three other members of the extended family also caught the killer bug but thankfully survived.

Osi, who also lives in MK, has been left "devastated" at what happened and is planning a tragic double funeral for his brothers this month - but attendance will be strictly limited due to lockdown restrictions to prevent further infection.

A online fundraising drive has now been launched to provide help for Olume's widow Juanetta and the couple's three-year-old daughter Mireille. already the poignant appeal has raised £10,000.

The brother’s older sister Ida Ivowi said: “We are a very close family and as you can imagine this has hit us all incredibly hard but we are determined to celebrate the lives of our brothers and focus on moving forward together as a family.

“It was my birthday this week and we all met up online to remember our lost ones and support Olume ‘s widow but we also think it’s important to celebrate life in the now. What has happened to us, demonstrates how fragile life is and how we have to remember to appreciate each other and find the joy every day because we never know what is around the corner.”

Ida added: "“The family would like to urge the public to adhere to all government guidelines to stay home and stay safe to avoid further spread of this virus and would also like to thank all the medical personnel in the front lines for their dedication, especially the doctors and nurses at Milton Keynes General. The family joins the world in thanking them for their service.”

Family friend, Ayo Ilawole. who who set up one of the GoFundMe appeals said: "The Ivowi family are like my second family and I have known all the siblings since I was seven years old which is why I wanted to help in any way I could. Their late mother was my brother’s Godmother and indeed Olume was my brother’s best friend. He feels lost and in shock. I am so saddened by what Covid-19 has done to this family. They don’t deserve this. They are such a good family. Very close, loving and humble.”

Tributes have been paid to Isi from MK Snap, where he was a learner. learner

The charity, which teaches life skills, said: "It is with great sadness that we share the news that one of our learners, Isimapeme Ivowi, affectionately known as ‘Isi’ has passed away."

"Isi was a gentle, happy and well-loved learner at MK SNAP for many years."

"Known for his big smiles and warm handshakes, Isi was loved by all who knew him and was a treasured friend of MK SNAP."

"Following a battle with COVID19 and despite the best care from colleagues at Milton Keynes Hospital, Isi could not be saved and passed peacefully."

"Our deepest condolences and heartfelt wishes go to Isi’s family at this incredibly difficult time, who are bravely bearing this as a second dreadful loss following the earlier passing of another family member..."

"Isi will always be remembered and missed by all of us at MK SNAP; where he spent many happy days."

You can find the fundraising pages here or here.