Bradford grandmother believed to be one of UK's longest coronavirus patients has left hospital after 135 days

Determined Paula McCarten, 57, left hospital on Wednesday in an emotionally charged scene, five months after contracting the killer virus.

The prison nurse, from Bradford, spent over 100 days in ICU before she was finally discharged and is thought to be one of the UK’s longest Covid-19 patients.

The longest anyone in the UK has been in hospital with coronavirus is believed to be 141 days.

She was accompanied by her family as the hospital staff at Bradford Teaching Hospital who saved her life applauded her following her remarkable recovery.

Doctors, nurses and carers are seen forming a guard of honour in the heartwarming video as Paula was wheeled out of the hospital.

Paula thanked the "wonderful" staff who nursed her back to health after defying the odds.

Paula said: "The doctors, carers and nurses have been absolutely wonderful. I'm so glad to be with my three sons, my husband supporting me and all my family.

"I'm so proud to be able to say this message."

The Ward 6 stroke unit, where she received rehabilitation, said she'd had a "phenomenal battle".

Professor Mel Pickup, Chief Executive of the Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, added: "The best of happy endings to a story that lasted 135 days.

"Delighted to see you reunited with your family and on your way home."